2020-2021 Student and Parent Handbook
Special note: COVID-19
During this period of a world-wide pandemic special rules and regulations have been established and are being implemented to protect and maximize the health and safety of our students and the entire St. Andrew’s School community. Where there may exist any conflict or difference between the 2020-2021 Student and Parent Handbook as published and newly developed COVID-19 operating procedures and policies, the COVID-19 operating guidelines will take precedence. The School will make every effort to communicate any material COVID-19 operating guidelines to all affected community members.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION AND MISSION 2 Infractions……………………………………………..21 CONTACT INFORMATION 3 Major Infractions……………………………………...22 MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMICS 4 Academi c Honesty…………………………………….23 Learning Goals………………………………………....4 Bullying and harassment……………………………...25 Academic Philosophy…………………………………..4 Sexual Harassment and Dating Advisers………………………………………………...4 Violence……………...29 UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMICS 5 Disciplinary Action and Consequences……………….33 Learning Goals………………………………………....5 Campus Buildings and Facilities……………………...35 Academic Philosophy…………………………………..5 Lockers and Student Identification Cards…………….35 Advisers………………………………………………...5 Automobiles…………………………………………..35 TECHNOLOGY 5 Community Service…………………………………...35 Acceptable Use Policy………………………………….6 Student Leadership……………………………………36 Device Requirement…………………………………....7 Chapin List…………………………………………....36 Daily Schedule………………………………………….8 National Honor Society…………………………….....38 Books…………………………………………………...9 Senior Privileges……………………………………...38 Drop/Add Policy………………………………………..9 Special Events and Traditions………………………...39 Class Attendance, Homework, and Make-up Policies…9 Attendance Policies and Procedures .…………………10 HEALTH 40 Snow Days, Delays, and Cancellations…………..…...11 Program……………………………………………….40 Successful Completion of Requirements……………...12 Procedures…………………………………………….40 Grading Policy and Reporting………………………...12 Medications…………..……………………………….41 Exam Policy and Schedule…………………………....12 Health Policy for Drugs and Alcohol………………....42 Honor Roll and Honors Program……………………...13 St. Andrew’s Accessibility Academic Probation…………………………………..14 Program…………………..43 Class Period Study Halls……………………………...14 Library Policies……………………………………….14 RESIDENTIAL LIFE 44 Athletics and Physical Education……………………..15 Facilities and Program………………………………..44 Eligibility Policy……………………………………....15 Suggested Articles for Residents……………………...44 Graduation Requirements and College Banking and Student Activity Account……………….45 Counseling………………………………………….....16 International Students………………………………....46 Parent Meetings, Conferences, and Class-Day Dormitory Visitation Visitation……………………………………………....1 Policy……………………………..…………………...46 7 Boarding Student Permissions………………………...47 Weekday STUDENT LIFE 18 Schedule………………………………….....48 Conduct Expectations………………………………....18 Weekend Middle School Code of Conduct……………………...18 Program……………………………………..49 Priority of Responsibilities……………………………18 Vacation Check-out and Return Dress Code…………………………………………….19 Policy………………..51 Student Discipline Procedures………………………...20 Commencement and Closing……………………….....52
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INTRODUCTION The purpose of this handbook is to outline the philosophy, policies, and procedures of St. Andrew’s. It gives students and parents an overview of day-to-day life in our community and is a reference in regards to what can be expected at St. Andrew’s. It should help students and parents understand how we implement our philosophy in the various areas of our School. If we are to be successful, we need to work together with parents as well as with students. For this reason, we encourage families to review this material together and call us with any questions. On rare occasions, it is necessary during the course of the school year to change policies, procedures, or rules stated in this handbook. If the modifications are significant, families will be notified.
STATEMENT OF MISSION St. Andrew’s School is a small, non-denominational boarding and day school located on a beautiful 70-acre campus serving coeducational grades 6-12 & Postgraduate (PG). The following is the official statement of St. Andrew’s philosophy as approved by the Board of Trustees in 2015:
St. Andrew’s School is a nurturing, challenging and safe educational community serving students in grades 6 - 12 and postgraduate (PG). Our dedicated faculty and staff embrace, encourage, educate and empower students one mind at a time. Our Episcopal heritage guides our moral and ethical values. Academic success and personal growth are promoted so that students can purposefully engage, succeed and thrive in school and in life.
Guiding Principles We believe in and practice the concept of “students first” and strive to ensure that all our decisions—academic, fiscal and philosophical—emanate from this conviction.
We are committed to a curriculum that prepares students for life and ensures that all who seek access to higher education will be sufficiently prepared.
We value a community as diverse as the world in which we live and therefore accept students based solely on their capacity to learn, grow and flourish because of our approach to education.
We pledge to offer sufficient financial aid to fulfill our mission.
We uphold the conviction that our students learn best in a small, intimate environment that allows for personal attention and ongoing interaction with faculty.
We seek to create a campus-wide environment that fosters growth in all its dimensions—intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual—and promotes learning in the classroom and beyond.
We embrace the arts, athletics and community service as essential elements of a St. Andrew’s education.
We strive to enhance the spiritual, moral and ethical development of our students by offering courses, programs and activities that nourish not just the head, but the heart and soul.
We recognize the importance of recruiting and retaining the very best faculty and staff, and we work diligently toward
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IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION
ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOL SWITCHBOARD: 401-246-1230 ADMINISTRATOR ON DUTY (rotates weekly) Cell: 401-225-4508 DIRECTOR OF STUDENT LIFE: Matthew Peal, ext. 3298 DEAN OF STUDENTS: Elizabeth Park, ext. 3144 ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL FOR ACADEMICS: Alexandra McMullen, ext. 3038 DIRECTOR OF UPPER SCHOOL: Michael Morin, ext. 3046 ASSISTANT TO DIRECTOR OF UPPER SCHOOL/ REGISTRAR: Shelley Peterson, ext. 3047 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ACADEMIC PROGRAMMING: Ryan Alescio, ext. 3139 DIRECTOR OF LEARNING SERVICES: Dr. Dana Gurney, ext. 3048 COORDINATOR TO THE OFFICE OF LEARNING SERVICES: Lisa Goniprow, ext. 3054 DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS: Michael Hart, ext. 3041 DIRECTOR OF RESIDENTIAL LIFE: Robert Tisdale, ext. 3109 TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR: Adam Telford, ext. 3064 SCHOOL NURSE: Rachel Shapiro and Sasha Askew, ext. 3030 DIRECTOR OF COLLEGE COUNSELING: Eric Hill, ext. 3045 SCHOOL COUNSELOR: Ann Allain, ext. 3035 DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS SERVICES: Matthew Cerullo, ext. 3036 EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE Head of School: Lee Ann Cameron, ext. 3029 ASSISTANT HEAD OF SCHOOL FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT: Stephanie Morin, ext. 3026 DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT: Kerrie Donahue ext. 3043 DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT: Ray Cross, ext. 3033
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MIDDLE SCHOOL ACADEMICS Learning Goals for the St. Andrew’s Middle School Student: 1. To develop the skills necessary to be an effective thinker, communicator, collaborator, and citizen of the world. 2. To develop the capacity for and understand the importance of positive risk-taking as a means to enhance one’s learning experience and to help stimulate intellectual and social/emotional growth. 3. To develop problem-solving skills which will be used effectively as an individual and as a member of a group. 4. To view learning as a journey and not a destination; in a world that is increasingly interrelated and rapidly evolving, to be able to develop the flexibility needed to adapt to new conditions. 5. To begin to develop a strong value system, which will provide a strong foundation for a life that will be full of honesty, compassion, and respect toward others. 6. To begin to accept the responsibilities of citizenship at all levels, from the familiar worlds of home and school to the increasingly complex domains of our local, national, and global communities. 7. To develop self-awareness, self-reliance, self-confidence, and self-respect and to recognize the importance that high personal and communal expectations play in helping the development of these traits. 8. To begin to learn how to relate effectively with different kinds of people, which will help to foster the development of strong and enduring friendships. 9. To learn that a healthy mind and a healthy body must be maintained throughout life by sound health practices and physical exercise. 10. To participate enthusiastically in service toward the community and honoring the Chapin tradition
Academic Philosophy: Each student at St. Andrew’s is a unique individual who brings their strengths and challenges into the classroom. It is our belief that every student is capable of learning when provided with an educational program that meets their needs and utilizes their learning style. St. Andrew’s offers a variety of coursework and support services, which allow us to develop an appropriate program for each student. The curriculum is designed to enable students to build on sequential steps in the learning process, take responsibility for their own learning, and gain the self-confidence to become lifelong learners. In middle school, faculty work with students on academic content, while at the same time developing students’ study skills and organizational strategies. As a result, students work toward increased independence as learners, build their sense of self-esteem, and gain confidence in their abilities. Across the board, students are held to high expectations, which are personalized for their learning style and are expected to take positive risks, viewing failure as an opportunity for growth, in order to bring out the best in themselves. In addition, the curriculum encourages students to build skills so that they become effective communicators, critical thinkers, efficient workers, and strong community members.
Role of the Adviser: The role of the adviser is to serve as a mentor, coach, and guide for students. Most importantly, this person serves as a bridge between home and school, sharing pertinent information with parents in regards to their child’s holistic academic, social and emotional experience at St. Andrew’s. advisers contact parents on a regular basis. The adviser will help students navigate their way through their St. Andrew’s Middle School experience by assisting in goal-setting, self-monitoring, and helping them to develop strategies to become active learners. Each student is assigned an adviser at the beginning of each academic year. Students may or may not be assigned the same adviser each year.
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UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMICS LEARNING GOALS FOR THE ST. ANDREW’S GRADUATE Education for Success St. Andrew’s defines success as the ability to solve problems in ways that society needs and values. Success is also the ability to set individual goals and attain them. The path to success is a complete education, which develops both intellect and spirit, both mind and heart. While a fulfilling education is greater than the sum of its parts and thus difficult to describe completely, St. Andrew’s School has established the following list of important learning goals for its graduates, of which the order does not imply precedence.
• To develop the skills necessary to further education and career success, most important among which are the skills of communication, of critical thinking, of measurement and calculation, and of creative thought • To learn to solve problems in different systems of thought, which necessitates the ability to synthesize the learning of these different systems and the ability to solve problems as an individual and as a member of a group • To view learning as a necessary lifelong commitment - in a rapidly changing world, whose parts are increasingly interrelated, the successful individuals will be those who know how to recognize and adapt to new conditions • To further develop a strong value system, which is the indispensable foundation for a life of integrity, moral and intellectual courage, and spiritual awareness • To accept the responsibilities of citizenship at all levels, from the familiar worlds of home and school to the increasingly complex domains of our local, national, and global communities • To develop self-awareness, self-reliance, self- confidence, and self-respect • To learn to relate effectively with different kinds of people, and to learn to make strong and enduring friendships • To learn that a healthy mind and a healthy body must be maintained throughout life by sound health practices and continuing exercise.
ACADEMIC PHILOSOPHY Each student at St. Andrew’s is a unique individual who brings their own strengths and weaknesses into the classroom. It is our belief that every student is capable of learning when provided with an educational program that meets the individual needs of the student and utilizes their learning style. St. Andrew’s offers a variety of coursework and support services, which allow us to develop an appropriate program for each student. The curriculum is designed to enable students to build on sequential steps in the learning process, take responsibility for their own learning, and gain the self-confidence to become lifelong learners.
ADVISERS Each student is assigned a faculty adviser to assist them while at St. Andrew’s. The adviser is a mentor, role model, and leader whose primary function is to help students learn. The adviser will help students navigate their way through their St. Andrew’s experience by assisting in goal-setting, self-monitoring, and developing strategies to become active learners. Advisers contact parents frequently to discuss their child’s progress. Advisers assist students and parents with course selections and they are responsible for notifying parents about any changes to their student’s schedule during the drop/add period at the outset of each semester. After completing their first year at St. Andrew’s, students are given the opportunity to request a particular adviser.
TECHNOLOGY The use of computers, the Internet, and Local Area Network at St. Andrew’s School is a privilege that can be taken away from any student who demonstrates improper use. Students who violate the Acceptable Use Policy will lose the privilege
5 of using computers, the Internet, and Local Area Network at St. Andrew’s School, and may face further disciplinary or legal action.
Students’ Acceptable Use Policy for the Internet One resource at St. Andrew’s School is a connection to the Internet. The Internet is a vast, global information network, linking computers at universities, high schools, research labs, and other sites. Through the Internet, one can communicate with people all over the world through a number of discussion forums, as well as through electronic mail. In addition, a myriad of files are available for downloading on the Internet, many of which are of educational value.
The Internet’s reaches are boundless. Because of this, despite its significant educational benefits, there also exists the possibility of abuse by its users. The benefits of Internet access for our students - in the form of supplying valuable information, resources, and opportunities for collaboration - exceed the disadvantages. Users (and parents/ guardians of users who are minors) must understand that St. Andrew’s School cannot control the content of information available on other sites. Some sites may be controversial and offensive. St. Andrew’s School does not condone or tolerate the use of deplorable materials and thus has certain safeguards in place to limit student access. It must be understood that St. Andrew’s School does not have sufficient staff to monitor all aspects of Internet use.
Educational Purposes: The purpose of St. Andrew’s School’s Internet connection is to enhance the established school curriculum. All use of computer and network resources must conform to the standards that St. Andrew’s sets for student behavior. The use of network resources and computers, whether school-owned or student-owned, is monitored by the St. Andrew’s faculty and staff. Student email accounts, hard drives, network storage, Internet activity, and system logs may be searched if there is suspicion of a violation of this agreement or other school policies.
Privilege: Access to the School’s Internet connection is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use will result in restriction or cancellation of access privileges and/or disciplinary action.
Responsibilities: All users shall assume full liability - legal, financial, or otherwise - for their actions when using the School’s Internet connection. Responsible use of the School’s Internet connection requires: • Appropriate use of student accounts to transfer or store material • Respect for the privacy of others • Limited printing of materials obtained through Internet access • Users to withhold personal information from others • Users to immediately notify a parent/guardian and faculty/administration if any individual is trying to contact them for illicit or suspicious activities • Compliance with the rules of the Acceptable Use Policy • Users may not play computer games on school-owned computers
Behaviors that may result in disciplinary action include, but are not limited to: • Involvement in any activity prohibited by law • Use of profanity, vulgarity, obscenity or other languages that tends to be offensive or degrading towards others • Use of the network for financial and/or personal gain or for political lobbying, except as expressly allowed during a school activity • Intentional use of invasive software such as “viruses,” “worms,” and other detrimental activities • Attempts to log-on to the network as any person other than yourself, or under any account other than your own • Viewing, storing, or transferring obscene, sexually explicit or pornographic materials • “Chain” letters, spam, hate mail, anonymous messages, threatening messages, harassment, remarks of a racial, sexist, or discriminatory nature or other antisocial behaviors • Sharing of passwords or using someone else’s password
6 • Using, storing, or sharing illegally copied or stolen software or digital materials (e.g. MP3, video, text, and image files) • Intentionally infringing upon the intellectual property rights of others, including plagiarizing and/or unauthorized use or reproduction, is prohibited. • Trespassing in anyone else’s folders, work, or files • Storing or transferring any file to the hard drive • Knowingly or carelessly performing acts that interfere with the normal operation or performance of computers, printers, terminals, server peripherals or networks • Attempting to bypass or thwart security, filtering, or proxy services operated by the school including, but not limited to, the use of network interface through an analog modem or cellular services • Using the school’s name and/or network to gain access to social networking sites (e.g. Twitter.com, Facebook. com or similar sites) - during the school day or during study hall hours. • Electronic harassment of any kind (e.g. personal emails, instant messages, posts to social media Websites, etc.) • Posting of information damaging to oneself or others in the St. Andrew’s community. Because the information posted in public or semi-public internet forums can be viewed at any time, the School can respond in a disciplinary manner towards any damaging public posts, regardless of whether or not the post was made during school hours or from the school network. Such damaging information can include, but is not limited to: disparaging remarks about fellow students or teachers, references to drug or alcohol use by oneself or others, the posting of images or videos which could be considered demeaning towards others or towards the school, and references to non-consensual sexual activity (any sexual activity in which one of the parties involved is under the age of 16 is considered non-consensual under Rhode Island State Law).
Copyrighted and Other Proprietary Materials: Users shall respect all copyright and proprietary interests of any materials accessed through the School’s Internet connection. Users may not duplicate copyrighted software without permission from the copyright holder, whether for personal use or the use of others. Duplicating copyrighted materials, or the use of such materials, are offenses that may be subject to criminal prosecution.
Privacy: St. Andrew’s Network is maintained and managed by the Director of Technology. To ensure its continued availability and reliability in performing its educational mission, users have no reasonable expectation of privacy concerning any materials transferred over or stored within the Network. St. Andrew’s School owns the hardware; therefore, any documents or materials are considered St. Andrew’s School property. Finally, communication and information accessible over the Internet are not guaranteed to be private. Users should not reveal personal information, such as addresses and telephone numbers.
DEVICE REQUIREMENT All students enrolled in St. Andrew’s grades 9-PG are required to bring a technology device meeting the minimum requirements outlined below. While families have the freedom to make their own choices regarding technology purchases, we provide these minimum guidelines to ensure that students have a device that will work in the classroom environment. Devices purchased that do not meet these minimum requirements may not function adequately and place students at a disadvantage. Minimum Device Requirements: ● Windows, Mac OS, Linux, or Chrome OS (not an android, iOS, Surface RT due to software requirements) ● Processor: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent ● Memory: 4GB ● Hard Drive: 64 GB or better ● Wireless: Wi-Fi ready ● Battery life: 6 hours ● Screen size: nothing smaller than 10.5” diagonal ● Headphone jack with headphones/earbuds ● Integrated Microphone & Camera
7 The family is solely responsible for the repair, maintenance, and updating of the device. The school's technology department will assist students by: ● Assisting students to connect their devices to the school's wireless network. ● Providing quick diagnostic overviews for known issues.
For major or unknown issues, it is the student’s responsibility to use their normal support channel (Best Buy, Geek Squad, Genius Bar, AppleCare, etc.). While out for repairs the school can provide a loaner for a short period of time, however, the student may be asked to pay a ‘rental fee’ for their loaner device.
Disclaimer: St. Andrew’s School makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the Internet service it is providing. St. Andrew’s School will not be responsible for any damages a user may suffer, including loss of data, from the student’s use. St. Andrew’s School will not be responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the Internet connection, nor for the information obtained in violation of this policy.
SCHOOL ONLINE PORTAL School online portal is a website that enables parents and students to access grades, schedules, assignments, and other classroom information. While this is a useful tool for parents, it is not intended to replace the parents’ interaction with advisers or lessen the role of the adviser as the main conduit of information between the parent and their child’s teachers.
DAILY SCHEDULE
Wednesday morning has been designated for teachers to collaborate. Students should arrive after 9:15 am. At the end of the academic day, students check in with their advisers and then proceed to their scheduled activities, intramurals, or athletics. Students are required to stay in the main campus area during the class day and until their athletic/activity period ends. If a student is on campus during the activity period but not assigned to an activity, then they
8 should be in the Student Center or a faculty-supervised location.
BOOKS Subject books may be purchased and sold back through our online bookstore( https://www.standrewsribookstore.com/). Instructions are also provided during one of our summer mailings. Any additional questions involving book purchases/returns can be directed to the Director of Business Services at extension 3036.
DROP/ADD POLICY Careful consideration should be given in the matter of course selection. The student, usually after consultation with their adviser and parents, selects those courses necessary for the accomplishment of their goals. Once a program has been chosen, St. Andrew’s makes every effort to tailor our resources to meet the student’s needs. Extensive time, effort, and planning are expended in the preparation of individual programs. Once final enrollment is established (usually by mid-summer), we must assume that the schedule has been finalized.
Once the schedule is determined, any adjustments in a student’s program will be considered for valid and sufficient reasons during the first seven days of the semester. A Drop/Add Request should be filled out by the student and their adviser. Obtaining the teachers’ signatures for the course to be dropped and for the subsequent course to be added, is the responsibility of the student. The adviser will forward the request to the Director of Upper School for approval. If there is agreement that this change is appropriate, it is the adviser’s responsibility to inform the parents and the responsibility of the Director of Upper School to forward the approval request to the scheduling department to reassign the student. This transfer is then forwarded to the student’s file in the Registrar’s Office.
If the issue is not resolved at this level, or if there is a request to drop/add after the drop/add period, then an Academic Review Meeting will take place. This meeting may include the student, the parents, the adviser, the teachers involved, the chair of the specific department, and the Director of Upper School. Final recommendations will be made at this meeting. The school reserves the right to deny any and all requests for program changes.
CLASS ATTENDANCE Along with test, quiz, homework, and project grades, class time is a valuable component of each course that cannot be made up outside of the classroom. Discussions, explanations, and sharing of knowledge are vital parts of the learning process. Students who miss 10 or more days of any class within a semester due to class absences, and/or habitual lateness, may have their grades reduced and may lose credit for that class, despite earning passing grades.
HOMEWORK Homework is considered an important component of St. Andrew’s academic training. It helps the student to master the material presented in class and to develop good study habits. Homework also provides an opportunity to practice skills previously taught, encourages independence, and promotes individual creativity. Most students can expect up to 2 hours of homework nightly. It is important to remember that one purpose of homework is to help students master the current material being taught; when students do not turn in homework in a timely manner, the benefit of the assignment is diminished. It is for this reason that teachers set policies which govern the amount of credit that late assignments receive. Students will lose partial or complete credit for late assignments, depending on the individual policy of the teacher.
MAKE-UP POLICY If a student is absent for one day, all previously assigned homework and previously announced quizzes and tests must be made up on the day of their return. Unannounced quizzes and classwork will have to be made up at the teacher’s discretion. When a student is absent for more than one day, he or she will be allowed one day, per every day he or she was absent, to make up missed assignments (i.e. if a student is out for two days, all work must be turned in by the second day back, and so on). 9
Students who have had difficulty completing make-up homework and classroom assignments—work that is not handed in, or is handed in late and/or poorly done—will be asked to see their teachers for extra help or to meet with their advisers to determine a plan for improving homework completion.
ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Absences – If a student is to be absent from school, parents must notify the front office before 8:30 am. They can be reached by calling 401.246.1230 or emailing [email protected]. If a student is ill and needs books and assignments at home, the office will need at least one day’s notice to gather materials.
Each semester, students are allowed no more than 10 absences in any class. Students must be in school for a minimum of 3.5 hours to be considered present for the day. When a student reaches 10 absences in a class within a semester there will be a meeting to determine the course of action necessary. Upon return to school after an illness, a student must report to the St. Andrew’s School Nurse. The School reserves the right to request a medical statement from the student’s physician. In the case of an extended absence, the Director of Upper School (ext. 3046) must be contacted.
Lateness and Early Dismissals – If a student will be late to school, or will be leaving school prior to the scheduled ending of school/activities, parents should notify or sign-out their student with the front office (401-246-1230) located in McVickar Hall. For day-students, no more than three excuses for lateness or missed requirements due to early dismissals will be accepted each quarter (exceptions will be made for doctor’s appointments if documentation is provided). Students who are on campus will not be allowed to return home to pick up homework, books, uniforms, etc. if they may have forgotten to bring them to school. Violation of these policies will lead to disciplinary and/or academic consequences.
Non-Health Related Absences – As a school community, we place a high value on instructional time. Although we cannot refuse to allow students to miss school for reasons that are not illness-related, we do ask that parents respect our belief in the benefits of class attendance and schedule family trips that coincide with school vacations. Students may request permission from the Head of School to leave more than 24 hours before the start of school vacation and/or return more than 24 hours after a vacation’s conclusion. However, such requests must be made at least two weeks prior to the absence. A student’s academic standing will be impacted by unauthorized non-health related absences. A non-health related absence is defined as any absence that is not related to illness or family emergencies (such as a family vacation). If a student is going to miss school for a non-health related absence: 1. A parent must notify the Head of School, in writing, at least two weeks before the scheduled absence 2. The student must fill out an Assignment Request Form and give it to their adviser at least two weeks prior to the absence 3. The student must turn in their assignments upon their return to school 4. Extra days to complete assignments will not be given for unexcused absences 5. If teachers are not given two weeks notice, assignments may not be available for students before they leave 6. Assignments turned in after unapproved non-health related absences will not be accepted
Personal Leave of Absence – If it is necessary for a student to ask for a leave of absence for reasons other than medical, those requests must be made in writing to the Head of School. The Head of School will meet with the Academic Advising Team to determine if the leave will be granted. Requests are only granted when extenuating circumstances are severe enough to warrant extended absence from school and when no alternatives are available. (See Health/Personal Leave)
Appointments – We ask that parents make every effort to schedule off-campus appointments during non-school hours. If appointments must be scheduled during the school day, parents should notify the Assistant to the Director of 10 Upper School at least one day in advance. We appreciate parents’ cooperation in not scheduling appointments the day before or the day after school vacations. SNOW DAYS, DELAYS, AND CANCELLATIONS If classes are canceled or delayed because of inclement weather, a recorded IRIS alert voice message will be sent to parents’ phones, and the announcement will be broadcast on the television and radio stations participating in the Rhode Island Broadcast Association Inclement Weather Cancellation program.
90 MINUTE DELAY SCHEDULE The Wednesday schedule will be used for the delay schedule. The class periods are subject to change.
TELEVISION STATIONS: WLNE-TV/ABC6 (www.abc6.com),WJAR-TV/NBC10 (www.turnto10.com),WPRI-TV/CBS12 (www.wpri.com),CW28 (www.cw28tv.com), RI PBS / Channel 36 (www.ripbs.org), WNAC-FOX (www.fox64.com)
RADIO STATIONS on the FM dial: 92.3 WPRO FM, 93.3 WSNE, 94.1 WHJY, 95.5 WBRU, 98.1 WCTK, 99.7 WSKO,100.3 WKKB,101.5 WWBB,102.7 JAZZ, 105.1 WWLI, 106.3 WWKX,1450 WLKW RADIO STATIONS on the AM dial: 1590 WARV, 630 WPRO, 790 WSKO, 920 WHJJ,1110 WpmZ, 1180 WCNX, 1240 WOON, 1290 WRNI, 1540 WADK,1590 WARV Unless a cancellation announcement has been made, school will be held and the normal schedule will be followed. Students, faculty, and staff are expected to arrive at school as close to the regular time as safety will allow. St. Andrew’s endorses parental discretion with regard to day-students and inclement weather. In the event of a cancellation, boarding students will be involved in activities throughout the day.
If day students are on campus and the weather and/ or roads are becoming dangerous, they will always be welcome to stay here on campus for dinner, for study hall, or for the night. If parents of day students wish to have a child
11 dismissed early because of weather concerns, they may call the School and give such permission or come to school to pick up their child. We will not release a child from school early without speaking to a custodial parent. We will not send students home early with student drivers without specific permission given by parents. If a child is part of a carpool, parents will need to give permission to have them leave early with a student driver. In case of severe weather during the school day, the School Emergency Plan will be followed.
SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF REQUIREMENTS The minimum amount of credit granted for any course is ½ credit. Students in semester courses must have a passing average for the semester in order to receive credit. In order to receive credit for a full year course, students must pass both semesters. If a student fails one semester and passes the other, they will receive ½ credit for the course. Students who fail a major course put their graduation in jeopardy. They will be asked to repeat that course or take a summer school course that is an appropriate substitute. Any summer school coursework for credit must be submitted to the Director of Upper School for prior approval. If a student is not making satisfactory progress toward reaching their graduation requirements, a meeting will be held to determine the necessary course of action.
GRADING POLICY The school year is divided into two semesters, each comprised of two quarters. Both Fall and Spring semesters culminate with an exam, which covers the material taught during that semester. Students are graded at the end of each quarter and receive a grade for each semester. The semester grade is determined by averaging the two quarter grades and the exam grade for that semester. Students are graded using a traditional A-F system, where F is failing, and grades inclusive of D- are considered passing with credit earned. Grades reflect mastery of material and skills as measured by homework, tests, quizzes, projects, classwork, class participation, and other criteria specifically designated by the teacher.
Students’ effort and conduct are also assessed but do not contribute to the actual letter grade a student receives.
The following grade scale is used to figure grade averages: 100+ A+ w / Honors 77-79 C+ 97-99 A+ 73-76 C 93-96 A 70-72 C- 90-92 A- 67-69 D+ 87-89 B+ 63-66 D 83-86 B 60-62 D- 80-82 B- < 60 F
GRADE REPORTING At the end of each quarter, parents will find a formal grade sheet in the school online portal. This includes comments in each subject area that describe the goals and objectives of the class, the assignments that students have been working on, and the methods and materials used to obtain the objectives listed. The student’s performance, effort, and conduct are also discussed. The semester and exam grades are also included at the end of each semester.
EXAM POLICY Students will be required to take exams at the end of the 1st and 2nd semesters. The Exam Policy is designed to expose students to the formal assessment experience that they will encounter in their future academic endeavors. Exam periods are two hours long, and students are required to remain in the location where the exam takes place for the entire two hours. Students are encouraged to bring reading materials and material to study for other exams in the event that they finish early. Students who require extended time can make arrangements with individual teachers to
12 complete their exams.
If a student misses an exam due to illness, the student will be allowed to make up the exam during the scheduled make-up period. If a student is going to miss an exam due to an excused absence, the student must request permission from the Director of Upper School and the subject teacher before the scheduled exam. Students who miss an exam due to an unexcused absence, or who do not receive permission before the scheduled exam, will not be allowed to make up the exam and will receive a zero for that portion of their grade. The exam grade counts for 15% of the semester grade. Students will be expected to attend Morning Meeting, advisory, and meals.
Second-semester seniors may be exempt from exams at the discretion of the individual class teacher if an A- average has been maintained.
EXAM SCHEDULE The daily schedule is modified during the exam week at the end of each semester. The school day officially begins with Morning Meeting at 9:05 am. However, breakfast will be served from 7:20 am - 8:20 am. Faculty will be available in their classrooms for optional advising and extra help from 8:20 am - 9:05 am.
Parents should call the Assistant to the Director of Upper School at extension 3047 if their student will be arriving late or leaving early because they have a study hall during a scheduled exam period. Otherwise, students must follow the same rules for study hall attendance that are normally in effect. Namely, students on High Honor Roll or Honor Roll plus Effort Honor Roll, do not have to report to study hall; all other students must report to their study hall if they are on campus. Between 11:45 am and 12:45 pm, students will have 30 minutes of advising and a 30 minute lunch. Only Chapin List students are allowed to leave campus during lunch breaks. A brief advising session will follow the afternoon exam and students will be dismissed at 3:00 pm. There will be team practices, but no activities during exam week. Exam schedules will be sent out prior to the end of each semester delineating the day and time for each exam.
HONOR ROLL Honor Rolls are published each quarter. To achieve Academic Honors, students must have a grade-point average for the quarter of at least a 3.25, but less than a 3.67, with no grade lower than a C-. To achieve Academic High Honors, students must have a quarter grade-point average of 3.67 or above, and no grade lower than a C-. We also recognize that effort and conduct are important to a student’s success; therefore, students who receive Excellent and Good for effort and conduct in all classes are recognized on the Effort Honor Roll.
HONORS COURSES St. Andrew’s is committed to challenging each student to reach their potential. In response to this, we have developed Honors Courses that will allow students to excel in their areas of strength. As a Faculty, we want students to realize that letter grades are only one measure of success. We urge students to recognize that a B with an Honors designation may better represent a student than an A in a regular course. Students can apply for Honors credit in any subject area. Contracts with individual teachers, in the subject area for which they have applied, will be developed and will include the following components: ● More rigorous quizzes, tests, presentations, and exams which require a higher level of skill and knowledge than the typical course work ● Alternate homework assignments that include challenging exercises and require students to go beyond their mastery of the basics ● A peer tutoring component that asks students to share their expertise by assisting other Upper or Middle School students
13 ● Independent learning responsibilities with which ask students to demonstrate that they are able to acquire knowledge and work on their own with guidance and support from their teachers
Contracts must be approved by the chair of the specific department, the Director of Upper School, and the student’s adviser. Students are required to remain in Honors courses for the duration of the course; one semester for semester classes and two semesters for full-year courses. Honors courses will be designated on the transcript.
ACADEMIC PROBATION Students are placed on Academic Probation when performance in the classroom has been so poor as to necessitate a strong message to the student and their family that a greater commitment to studies is necessary. In light of our small class size and the support available from teachers, inclusion on this list indicates a serious academic or attitudinal problem, that needs to be addressed by the student, their parents, and the school. In the Middle School, this would necessitate a discussion with the Director of Middle School, Director of Learning Services (if appropriate) and adviser in order to create a plan that will address these issues in a timely manner.
In the Upper School, students who are placed on the list two quarters in a row will be required to attend a hearing to evaluate their status at the School. If a student is on Academic Probation two semesters in a row, this, in all likelihood, will result in dismissal or withholding of contract. Specifically, a student is placed on Academic Probation if he or she receives two or more D’s or one F in one quarter. Student performance is reviewed after each semester, as well as at the quarter mark. Students may be removed from probation as the result of improved academic performance.
CLASS PERIOD STUDY HALLS Students who are not scheduled into a class during any given period will be assigned to a proctored study hall. All students must check-in with the Study Hall Proctor at the beginning of the period. Students on High Honor Roll, students on Honor Roll plus Effort Honor Roll, and Chapin List students may spend the period in any appropriate campus venue after they have checked in with the Study Hall proctor. All students on Conduct Probation must attend their scheduled study halls. In the Middle School, study halls are not a scheduled class.
LIBRARY POLICIES All members of the St. Andrew’s community (students, parents, trustees, faculty, and staff) are eligible for library privileges at the Rooke Library. The collection includes books, newspapers, and periodicals as well as CDs, Books-on-Tape, videos, and other reference materials. Books, CDs and Books-on-Tape circulate for three (3) weeks, unless on reserve for a specific class. Videos and periodicals circulate only by special permission. Reference materials do not circulate.
Daytime and Evening Study Halls – With the exception of Library Prefects, students should not be in the library without a faculty member present.
Chapin List, High Honors, and National Honor Society Students: • must have a note from the Study Hall Proctor, including the time the student left for the library • do not need a specific assignment from a teacher • may: study, surf the web, use school email, and browse magazines and newspapers
Library Hours – Times may fluctuate during exam periods and when there are no after-school activities. Daytime: Monday – Thursday, approximately 8:15 am - 5:30 pm Friday – approximately 8:15 am - 2:45 pm
14 Weekends: The library will be open intermittently on Friday and Saturday based on the weekend activity schedule
Library Prefects – Juniors and Seniors may apply for Library Prefect positions. One Prefect is selected to cover each class period and each evening. These students assist the Director of Library Services and help students in finding, and checking out library materials. They may cover the library if the Director is away from her desk. Library Prefects receive community service hours for their time and may include this position on their college applications.
Library Materials – Most library materials circulate for three weeks. When material is checked out, the student is given a bookmark with the due date. Overdue notices will be sent to advisers at the end of every quarter. All materials are due back to the library two weeks before the end of School. At this time, bills will be sent to parents for any materials not yet returned. Books are billed at replacement cost plus a $5.00 processing fee. Bills are due for payment immediately. Preference is for materials to be returned, avoiding payment.
ATHLETICS AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION The Middle School maintains the following interscholastic teams: Co-ed soccer in the fall and Co-ed basketball in the winter. Eighth-grade students only may tryout for Upper School teams with the permission of the Director of Athletics and the Director of Middle School.
The school maintains the following interscholastic teams: Boys’ and Girls’ soccer and cross-country in the fall; Boys’ and Girls’ basketball in the winter; co-ed tennis and golf, and Boys’ and Girls’ lacrosse in the spring. St. Andrew’s is a member of the Southeastern New England Secondary Schools Interscholastic Athletic Association (S.E.N.E.). The campus athletic facilities include two modern gymnasiums, a Project Adventure course, large athletic fields, a fitness center, tennis courts, and a cross-country course.
Boarding students are required to participate in after school activities each season. Day students are permitted to take one season off. All students must participate in two seasons of after-school activities that satisfy our physical education requirement, as stipulated by the State of Rhode Island and the Director of Athletics. For those students not on interscholastic teams, after-school intramural sports and activities are offered. The programs run Monday through Thursday, and attendance, athletic attire, and active participation are mandatory. In keeping with the academic policy on class absences, students who miss more than 10% of sports/activities, due to excused or unexcused absences may lose credit towards fulfilling the physical education requirement, despite their participation when present. In addition, students will not receive credit if they do not wear athletic attire. Failure of the physical education requirement for the year will necessitate summer school attendance. Unexcused absences will be treated as class absences. No more than three excused absences are allowed per season.
ELIGIBILITY POLICY Participation in interscholastic athletics, student government, and prefect programs are opportunities that carry with them the expectation that the students involved will perform responsibly in all areas of student life. Students on Academic Probation and/or Conduct Probation will not be eligible to participate fully in these programs. Issues related to eligibility are typically reviewed by the Administration at the end of each quarter and subsequent semester.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS To graduate, a student must complete 26 credits (minimum core requirements are found below): 24 academic credits and 2 credits in physical education. Students are expected to take coursework in English, math, science, and physical education each year. Preparation in a foreign language is also highly recommended. Students in grades 10 through 11 may only take one study hall in their schedule. Seniors may take 1.5 study halls Seniors must pass the equivalent of five full-credit courses to graduate. All seniors must successfully complete
15 English IV in order to graduate.
Specific minimum requirements are: • 4 credits in English History) • 3 credits in mathematics • 2 credits in physical education • 3 credits in science (including two in a lab science) • 2 credits in art • 3 credits in social studies (including 1 in U.S. • 2 credits in world language St. Andrew’s School will not accept more than .50 credits per year from outside sources e.g. online or summer school classes for the purpose of additional graduation requirement credits or for credit recovery. Advanced Placement Classes that are not offered by St. Andrew’s School may be taken online with prior approval of the student’s adviser, appropriate department chair, and the Director of Upper School.
We must emphasize that these are minimum requirements. To take full advantage of the learning opportunities available at St. Andrew’s, and to prepare most effectively for further education, students typically go beyond the minimum requirements listed.
Early Graduation Requirements – We believe that the accumulation of academic credits is just one component of high school completion. We feel strongly that the growth, development, and maturity that students attain during their high school years are as important as their grades and credits. The experiences students are exposed to over four years of high school – both in and out of the classroom – allow them to transition successfully to life after St. Andrew’s School. It is for this reason that, under normal circumstances, we do not allow students to graduate early or to combine their senior year of high school with their freshman year of college. If there are extenuating circumstances that would warrant an exception, a petition may be made to the Head of School, who will make a final decision based on the individual circumstances
TRANSFER STUDENTS Students transfer to St. Andrew’s School from educational settings worldwide, many of whom have met the requirements of their last school but may not be on track to earn the necessary 26 credits to graduate from St. Andrew’s. Students transferring to St. Andrew’s will be required to take the maximum number of credits available each semester in order to complete our 26 credit graduation requirements. Each transfer student’s situation will be handled on an individual basis. All transfer students will be required to complete: 4 credits in English, 3 credits in Math, 3 credits in History (1 being U.S. History), 3 credits in Science (2 being laboratory science), 2 credits in Physical Education, and 1 credit in Art.
POST-SECONDARY PLANNING Goal setting, short-term and long-term planning, and informal discussions about careers and postsecondary plans are ongoing between students and advisers from the moment a student enters the Upper School. After the first semester of their freshman year, the Director of College Counseling introduces the students to Family Connection, the web-based software system that the college counseling office uses to manage the college process. In their sophomore year, students meet with the Director of College Counseling and begin building their resume, start researching schools, complete career assessments, and interest profiles, as well as do online practice for standardized tests. GPAs and standardized test scores are housed and updated in their Family Connection accounts as well. The PSAT is given in the spring of the sophomore year and in the fall of the junior year. A practice ACT test is also offered in the spring of the sophomore year and the fall of the junior year. The first official standardized test is typically attempted in the winter and/or spring of the junior year, and students are encouraged to consider and/or attempt both the ACT and the SAT. The Director of College Counseling meets individually with all juniors, and he can assist with the test registration process. If a student is eligible for accommodations on a standardized test, families will need to work
16 closely with the Director of College Counseling to obtain accommodations. The Director of College Counseling also works with juniors and their families to generate a prospective list of schools, or in some instances, consider a gap year or alternative program.
Each fall dozens of college admissions representatives visit St. Andrew’s and both juniors and seniors are encouraged to meet with these representatives. The meetings are informal and conversational and they are held in the college counseling office. The meetings serve as a point of direct contact, and as an opportunity for students to demonstrate their interest to a prospective admissions officer. The updated list of visiting admissions officers can also be found in their Family Connection account. In the nine months prior to graduation students should be sharpening their focus, and in most instances this means finalizing a list of schools, making determinations about standardized test options and reporting, and executing the necessary decision plan arrangements. Seniors need to work closely and communicate directly with the Director of College Counseling to effectively complete all facets of their applications and meet myriad deadlines. For students and families that wish to consider highly selective schools it is imperative to connect early with the Director of College Counseling, as testing plans can be more complex and the overall timeline and process will likely be accelerated.
PARENT MEETINGS, CONFERENCES, AND CLASS-DAY VISITATION In the Middle School, it is essential to maintain a strong partnership between home and school. We encourage you to be proactive in your communication. If there is a question or concern, parents should not hesitate to call either their child’s adviser and/or the Director of Middle School.
In the Upper School, if there is a question or concern, parents should not hesitate to call their child’s adviser and/or the Director of Upper School.
Parent Conferences are available during Alumni Homecoming and Family Weekend in October. Parents may sign up for individual meetings with their child’s teachers and advisers. Morning Meetings are also available for parents who wish to meet with one or more of their child’s teachers outside of scheduled parent conferences. In the Middle School, parents should contact the Director of the Middle School to schedule these meetings. In the Upper School, parents should call the student’s adviser or the Assistant to the Director of Upper School (ext. 3047) to set up an appointment. These meetings are typically held at 7:30 am.
IEP Meetings are scheduled semi-annually for new students and annually for returning students. Any concerns relating to a student’s Resource or Focus Program should be brought to the attention of the student’s adviser, resource teacher, or the Director of Learning Services.
Parental Visits during the school day are discouraged. In order to avoid disruption, parents are asked not to visit classrooms during the school day.
Guests are allowed to attend a school or school activities only when students obtain permission from the Director of Student Life at least 24 hours in advance. Guests should be appropriate candidates for Upper School when attending classes (no small children or pets, for example). Visitors will be expected to follow all School rules; students will be held responsible for the actions of their guests.
Alumni/nae are encouraged to visit our campus but must obtain a visitor’s pass from the receptionist in McVickar Hall upon arrival. Alumni/nae are asked not to visit former teachers and classmates during class hours, and they are not permitted in academic buildings, unless accompanied, during class time. Former students who have withdrawn, have been dismissed, or are on a leave of absence from the School need to obtain permission from either the Head of
17 School or the Director of Student Life before coming onto campus. STUDENT LIFE AND CONDUCT CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS At St. Andrew’s School, we believe that our role is to help students take responsibility for their actions and their lives, to empower them in their growth toward becoming effective adults. We believe that students should graduate from St. Andrew’s as good decision-makers, both in avoiding negative behaviors and in choosing positive ones. For the protection of the community, at any time the School reserves the right to search a student’s pockets, purse, backpack, gym bag, automobile, personal property, and school property such as student rooms, lockers, and desks. Take Responsibility for Your Actions – Taking charge of your life is a major step on the road to maturity. The deliberate planning and development of strategies will make you a more effective person. Another aspect of maturity involves recognizing when you have made a mistake, admitting it, and learning from it. Respect People and Property – Mutual respect is central to any effective community. Listening to each other, cooperating, treating each other respectfully and caring for the property are essential practices in our community. Protect Health and Safety – Taking good care of yourself includes a proper diet, frequent exercise, sufficient sleep, stress management, and good choices with regard to tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and risk-taking. Be Honest and Fair – Honesty and fair play form the basis of trust both in and out of the classroom. Make sure you can stand behind your work and your word. Dishonesty in any form, including theft and lying, is not tolerated. Learn, Understand and Operate According to School Policies – All communities must develop procedures that will enhance efficient day-to-day functioning. These policies are described throughout this handbook. The reasons for most will be obvious to you, but you may not fully understand some. We encourage discussion of our policies, but it is important to recognize that you are part of a system and to learn to operate successfully within that system.
St. Andrew’s Middle School Code of Conduct Students have the responsibility: 1. to behave in a way that aligns with the Chapin tradition, which includes treating others with honesty, compassion, and respect. 2. to think before I act or communicate toward others in ANY way that may be considered disrespectful, hurtful, or dishonest. This includes my online communication as well. 3. to respect the physical space of other students by keeping my hands and feet to myself. 4. to help protect others who are in an unsafe situation, whether that be a physical or verbal situation, by immediately telling a trusted adult. 5. to respect the property of other students and community members by only using materials that belong to me or materials that I have a teacher, adviser, or other adults’ permission to use. This includes computers, google accounts, and files. 6. to be honest when completing all homework, classwork, and tests and to ask a teacher when I am unsure of a guideline. 7. to show respect toward the ideas of others, although I might not agree, by listening with empathy (i.e. putting yourself in the shoes of the other person) and an open mind. 8. to help keep spaces that either belong to me or that I share with the community organized and clean, which include my cubby, classroom spaces, and hallways. 9. to behave in a respectful and calm way during the school day, which includes all spaces. This means being aware of my noise level and in the complete dress code, which includes clean, neat clothes that are in good repair and modest in style and appropriate for school. 10. to participate with enthusiasm and compassion in service to the community.
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PRIORITY OF RESPONSIBILITIES Off-campus interests may, at times, be in direct competition with school requirements. If this occurs, it is important to note that all school responsibilities take precedence over out of school activities.
DRESS CODE All School Dress Code Our goal is to maintain criteria for dress and grooming that fosters pride in self and respect for School standards and helps our students to find their places here at St. Andrew’s School based on their accomplishments rather than on their outward appearance. Academic success and personal growth are promoted so that students can purposefully engage, succeed, and thrive in school and in life. Students are expected to dress in clean neat clothes that fit well and are in good repair, modest in style, and appropriate for the occasion.
Clothing options: • Pants, trousers, shorts, capris, skirts, or dresses. Clothing must be no shorter than 3” above the top of the knee when standing upright. No blue denim is allowed during the school day (except jackets). Leggings can be worn under shorts/skirts/dresses that are no shorter than 3” above the knee. • All tops must cover shoulders, back, chest and stomach. All buttons are to be buttoned to the collar bone. Undershirts may only be worn under another shirt.
When making clothing choices, students should follow these guidelines: - Logos may not be bigger than 1" by 1" - No athletic, beach, see-through or sleep attire - No offensive messaging or images • Footwear must be appropriate for school activities; heels should be lower than 2”. • Accessories must be limited to outdoor use (i.e.: sunglasses-unless required medically, hats and visors).
Spirit day Dress Code Students may wear: • St. Andrew’s athletic wear (T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, sweat pants, shorts that meet the 3” above the knee rule) • Clothing or costumes that meet the guidelines approved by the dean/team leader for special occasions.
ARTICLES NOT PERMITTED DURING THE CLASS DAY (8:00 am - 4:00 pm) Having these items will result in their confiscation for 48 hours and may lead to further disciplinary action, as warranted. • Anything that might detract from the learning environment: for example skateboards, scooters, hoverboards, bicycles, and rollerblades.
• With regards to digital communication devices (e.g. cell phones, smartwatches, etc.): the school believes in fostering in each student the ability to communicate interpersonally, to plan effectively, to self-advocate appropriately, and to respond properly to frustration and setbacks. We also want students to be free from outside distractions which can be created by frequent digital communication via phone or social media. To help achieve these goals, we ask that Upper School refrain from using digital communication devices during academic classes and lunch.
NOTE TO PARENTS: Please make every effort to minimize contact with your student during the academic day. In the case of an emergency in which you need to speak to your student right away, please call the front office between
19 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.
ARTICLES NOT PERMITTED The following are altogether prohibited from campus: Anything that could injure persons or property: weapons (including folding knives), tools, tobacco products, matches/lighters, electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes), vaporizers, firecrackers, laser pointers, nerf guns, and water guns. All illegal substances.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES Central to the student discipline procedures of St. Andrew’s School is notice to the student of the infraction and the opportunity to be heard, both of which must be reasonable under the circumstances.
For the protection of the community, at any time the School reserves the right to search a student’s pockets, purse, backpack, gym bag, automobile, personal property, and school property such as student rooms, lockers, and desks. Communication devices (e.g. cell phones) may also be searched if there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating school rules.
With regard to conduct that violates school policies but does not warrant a student’s suspension or dismissal from school, the Dean of Students, the Director of Student Life, the Director of Upper School, the Director of Learning Services, the Head of School, or the Head of School’s designee may impose consequences, including but not limited to, detention, mandated community service, Conduct Probation and loss of position and/or privileges. Prior to imposing any of these consequences, the administrator shall meet with the student and inform the student of the nature of the offense and the contemplated consequences. The administrator shall then afford the student the opportunity to discuss the student’s responsibility for the conduct at issue and/or the appropriateness of the consequences. The decision of the administrator is final.
With regard to conduct that gives rise to a student’s suspension from school short of dismissal, the Head of School, Dean of Students, Director of Student Life, the Director of Upper School, or the Head of School’s designee may suspend a student for such period as the Administrator deems appropriate. Prior to suspending a student, the administrator will meet with the student and communicate with the student’s parent/legal guardian the nature of the offense and the length of the contemplated suspension. The administrator shall then afford the student and/or the student’s parent/ legal guardian the opportunity to discuss the student’s responsibility for the conduct at issue and/or the appropriateness of the suspension. The decision of the administrator is final.
With regard to conduct that potentially gives rise to a student’s dismissal from school, the Student /Faculty Disciplinary Committee and/or the Head of School may dismiss a student. The Head of School has the sole discretion whether to waive proceeding before the Student/ Faculty Disciplinary Committee with regard to any matter that involves the welfare of the community or issues of a personal or confidential nature.
The Student/Faculty Disciplinary Committee shall then afford the student and the student’s parent/legal guardian the opportunity to discuss the student’s responsibility for the conduct at issue and/or the appropriateness of the dismissal. The Student/ Faculty Disciplinary Committee shall then deliberate privately and render a decision in writing. The student may appeal the decision of the Student/Faculty Disciplinary Committee to the Head of School by setting forth in writing delivered to the Head of School’s office within twenty-four hours of the delivery of Student/ Faculty Disciplinary Committee’s decision why the decision of the Student/Faculty Disciplinary Committee is wrong. The Head of School may in their sole discretion choose to meet with the student, the student’s parent, and/or the student’s adviser. The decision of the Head of School to uphold, reverse, or remand the decision of the Student/Faculty
20 Disciplinary Committee is final.
If the Head of School determines that it is necessary to waive proceeding before the Student/Faculty Disciplinary Committee, the Head of School may still ask members of the faculty to offer advice and recommendations. Prior to making any decision, the Head of School shall meet with the student and the student’s parent/legal guardian and inform the student and the student’s parent/legal guardian of the nature of the offense and the grounds for dismissal. The Head of School shall then afford the student and the student’s parent/legal guardian the opportunity to discuss the student’s responsibility for the conduct at issue and/or the appropriateness of dismissal. The Head of School shall then render a decision in writing which is final.
With regard to the discipline of a student with disabilities, each shall consider whether the student’s conduct is a manifestation of the student’s disability, and, if so, to what extent can the School reasonably accommodate the manifestation of the student’s disability without disciplining the student.
In determining the appropriateness of any form of discipline, any decision-maker may consider the totality of circumstances surrounding the student’s enrollment at St. Andrew’s.
In the event that a student is suspended or dismissed, the student’s parent/legal guardian shall be liable for all expenses associated with the student’s return home.
School Jurisdiction – The School’s jurisdiction extends beyond the class day and/or the geographical boundaries of the campus. School rules apply to all students on any school activity. Boarding students remain under our jurisdiction at all times and places unless they are checked out to their own or another student’s parents for an overnight, following communication between the School and parents. Any student in the presence of another student who is breaking a rule will also be held accountable. This includes day-students off-campus with boarding students. Students coming to or leaving from the School will be held responsible to County Road to the east, Barrington High School to the south, and Middle Highway to the west.
Parental Excuses – Parent calls to excuse infractions will not necessarily be accepted by the School. St. Andrew’s reserves the right to NOT accept excuses that are deemed unreasonable. We want to work with parents, and we recognize that specific situations may occur that would lead to a parent calling to excuse behavior. Such cases should, however, be the exception rather than the rule. The School will establish limits to the number of excuses that will be accepted. After the limit has been reached, the student will receive the consequence for the infraction even if a call has been made by parents. In most instances, no more than three excuses will be accepted each quarter for daily responsibilities and no more than one excuse per quarter for weekly responsibilities.
INFRACTIONS We believe that a structured environment helps students learn the difference between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. Through formal and informal educational experiences, and by our response to improper choices, we help our students to become better decision-makers. St. Andrew’s defines two levels of infractions and stipulates the typical consequences of each. Please be aware that circumstances specific to a case may lead to more or less severe consequences.
Minor Infractions – The following may result in a consequence specific to the infraction. For example, prohibited items will be confiscated, dress code violations will be corrected, and detention, forfeiture of privileges or mandated community service will be assigned for lateness or missed obligations. The repetition of minor infractions will lead to more severe penalties. Minor infractions include, but are not limited to:
21 • Lateness • Use of inappropriate language • Lesser instances of rude, disrespectful, or uncooperative behaviors • Violation of dorm rules, such as lights out or incomplete dorm duties • Absences from class, study hall, extra help, athletics/intramurals, detention, and meals • Using a cell phone or prohibited electronic device during academic classes, during lunch and evening study hall • Dress code infractions • Students should not engage in inappropriate public displays of affection. St. Andrew’s School does not condone premarital sexual intimacy of any kind • Sexting - The school prohibits students from using technology devices (whether owned by the student or the school, and whether through the use of the school’s network or outside of the school’s network, and whether used on or off campus) to send any written message or image that contains explicit representations or references to sexual conduct, sexual excitement, or nudity (commonly known as “sexting” with or without consent). Rhode Island law prohibits anyone (regardless of age) from disseminating obscene or pornographic images of minors and prohibits a minor from transmitting an indecent visual depiction of himself or herself to another person; the school is required by law to contact local authorities should any student violate this policy.
Time Out from an Academic Class – Time out occurs when a teacher requires a student to leave class following an incident during which the student has not followed a specific direction or modified their behavior in accordance with the class activity or rule. In this case, the teacher will direct the student to step outside the class and to wait by the door for further instructions. The teacher will call the Director of Middle School or the Dean of Students (ext. 3144) to ensure presence and availability. The teacher will then provide next-step directions to the student and will give the student a pass to move to the next location (e.g. the office of the Director of Middle School or Dean of Students). At the teacher’s earliest convenience after class, he or she will contact the administrator to discuss the issue and will determine the next steps for the student and/or additional consequences. The teacher will also make plans to discuss the infraction with the student. An infraction report will be sent online or given to the Dean of Students by the end of that same school day.
MAJOR INFRACTIONS The following are violations of major school rules. Violations of major school rules may result in disciplinary action, including the possibility of suspensions or dismissal for a first offense. In some instances, the Head of School may call for the immediate removal of a student from campus. • Selling, supplying, possessing, using drugs or alcohols (see Drugs and Alcohol) • Violence towards another person, or their property or good name (e.g. harassment, bullying, fighting, stealing, vandalism, slandering, and/or malicious gossip) • The School reserves the right to address any internet activity that impacts the St. Andrew’s community. • Tobacco Use: The possession or use of tobacco products, in any form, is prohibited. Students found in violation of this rule, in addition to disciplinary action, are required to meet with a member of the Health Team. The use of tobacco products inside a school building is a violation of state law and may result in suspension or dismissal (see Tobacco/Fire Safety). • Possession or use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes) and vaporizers is prohibited. Students found in violation of this rule, in addition to disciplinary action, are required to meet with a member of the Health Team. • Possession or use of explosives, flammable, dangerous items, firearms, pocket knives, and other weapons • Any behavior that brings disgrace to the good name of the School or necessitates the involvement of the police • Grave misconduct contrary to the principles of the St. Andrew’s School Community • Repeated classroom behavior that impedes other students' learning.
22 • Failure to respond to correction: Behavior that persistently demonstrates an unwillingness or inability to live by the academic, moral, social, or athletic requirements of the School (i.e. very rude, disrespectful, or uncooperative repetitive behaviors) • Leaving the school bounds without permission • Tampering with, or inappropriate use of, fire-safety equipment (e.g. extinguishers, alarms, fire escapes) • Violation of the Acceptable Use Policy • Violation of automobile/driving/passenger policies • Theft, on or off-campus, including electronic theft by improper use of telephone, bank, or credit cards • Unauthorized presence in buildings and/or restricted areas violating a teacher’s personal or professional space • Abuse of privileges, and/or delinquency, with regard to leadership positions
ACADEMIC HONESTY Matters of academic honesty are handled by the Director of Middle School, Director of Upper School, and Dean of Students. In the Middle School, the primary purpose is to educate students about the importance of academic honesty. These instances will be handled accordingly in the middle school with individualized repercussions based on the offense. In the Upper School, all substantiated instances of plagiarism will result in a reduced grade, typically an assessment is reduced to a zero. The results of plagiarism typically follow the following disciplinary responses: the first infraction includes two hours of detention, the second infraction results in a suspension, the third infraction will be presented to the Disciplinary Committee for possible dismissal. Plagiarism records are kept for the duration of the student’s time at St. Andrew’s. Students are expected to do all of their own work, and only their own work. Forms of academic dishonesty include:
• Copying word-for-word (or essentially so - changing a few words here and there does not make another’s work one’s own) from books, from other media sources, or from another student’s work • Presenting another writer’s exact words without quotation marks, in-text citation • Presenting someone else’s ideas in a paper without the use of Works Cited or Bibliography • Presenting another person’s work as one’s own, including homework, lab work, etc. • Presenting information obtained electronically, i.e. via the Internet, as one’s own, without the use of proper citation • Preparing an assignment with significant, unacknowledged help of parents, or other students, without the teacher’s permission • Using another person’s ideas or work in the preparation of work without the teacher’s permission or without proper citations • Using or having in one’s possession textbooks, class notes, or other course-related information, verbal or written, while taking a test, without the teacher’s permission • Providing information or materials to another student without the teacher’s permission • Self-plagiarism; submitting previously graded work for credit without permission of the teacher
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL The possession or use of illegal drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia (including vaporizers and electronic cigarettes), or being in the presence of anyone using them, as well as the abuse of over-the-counter medications, while a member of the St. Andrew’s community, is prohibited whether on or off-campus and whether or not school is in session. The Head of School, the Dean of Students, the Director of Student Life, or the Administrator on Duty may require any student that he or she reasonably believes to have violated this policy to submit to saliva testing, breathalyzer, hair analysis, blood or urine testing. The results of drug testing may be used in a disciplinary proceeding as well as any other evidence of a violation of this policy. If a student refuses to take a drug or alcohol test, St. Andrew’s will treat this refusal as a positive test. If a student violates this policy, St. Andrew’s may suspend or dismiss the student. If the
23 student is not dismissed, the student may nonetheless be required to undergo random, periodic drug and alcohol testing for the remainder of the student’s tenure at St. Andrew’s. In addition, the student may be required to comply with a treatment program approved by St. Andrew’s. St. Andrew’s reserves the right to remove a student from campus owing to a lack of compliance. St. Andrew’s is not responsible for any of the costs that accompany testing and/or subsequent treatment.
Students may contact the health center for confidential help about drug/alcohol use.
If a student feels that a fellow student is in danger due to problems with drug and alcohol use, they may make a confidential referral to the health center or School Counselor (See “HEALTH” section of handbook). At the discretion of the School Counselor and/or School Nurse, the Dean of Students may be informed that the student has been referred or is undergoing treatment, but such referrals will not be treated in a disciplinary manner if the Dean of Students had no prior knowledge of the student’s substance usage.
NICOTINE/TOBACCO/FIRE SAFETY St. Andrew’s School is committed to creating a healthy environment for its students. Because of the serious health issues related to adolescent smoking and nicotine addiction, students in our care may not use tobacco products, have tobacco paraphernalia in their possession, or be in the presence of anyone who is using tobacco; students smelling strongly of cigarette smoke will be considered in violation of this policy. Similarly, pressuring others to use drugs or alcohol is prohibited. Additionally, students are not allowed to be in possession of electronic nicotine delivery systems (e-cigarettes) or vaporizers. The faculty will confiscate all tobacco and/or paraphernalia on sight. Smoking, lighting matches, burning candles or incense is prohibited on campus. Tobacco/fire safety infractions may result in a dismissal hearing for the first offense. In addition, the student may be required to comply with a treatment program approved by St. Andrew’s. St. Andrew’s reserves the right to remove a student from campus owing to a lack of compliance. St. Andrew’s is not responsible for any of the costs that accompany testing and/or subsequent treatment.
AGGRESSIVE AND DESTRUCTIVE BEHAVIOR The following are also regarded as major infractions and therefore may warrant suspension, dismissal hearing, or immediate removal from campus for a first offense
Private Property – All community members have the right to protection of their property. Students are expected to respect the rights of others by not going into anyone’s property or space without that person’s permission (even to take possession of their own property—for example, items which a teacher may have confiscated). This policy covers, but is not limited to, offices, classrooms, desks, briefcases, book bags, lockers, closets, computers, and automobiles.
Fighting – Physical violence of any kind, including play fighting, will not be tolerated
Possession of Weapons – The possession of any weapon, tool, or object used to threaten the well-being of others poses a serious risk to the safety of the entire community. Lighters, matches, water guns, Nerf guns, sprayers, snowballs, etc. are not to be used on campus.
Vandalism – We believe that our physical environment is to be valued and respected as much as each individual within it. Acts of vandalism will not be tolerated.
Threats – Verbal or written threats, including items issued on the internet, are taken seriously and will be addressed accordingly. Cyberbullying, or the use of the Internet, be it via e-mails, instant messaging or social networking sites, to bully or harass is not tolerated. 24
Use of Inappropriate Language – The use of derogatory, offensive and/or malicious terminology is unacceptable on our campus.
Uninvited and Unwelcome Pressure for Sexual Activity - Any such activity, including requests made using digital communication devices or online social media forums, will not be tolerated within the St. Andrew’s community.
BULLYING AND HARASSMENT St. Andrew’s policy towards bullying, harassment, and dating violence is in accordance with Rhode Island’s Safe School Act (§16-21-34 of the General Laws of Rhode Island). As set forth by state law:
1. DEFINITIONS BULLYING means the use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination thereof directed at a student that: a. Causes physical or emotional harm to the student or damage to the student’s property; b. Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to themselves or damage to their property; c. Creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or abusive educational environment for the student; d. Infringes on the rights of the student to participate in school activities, or e. Materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.
The expression, physical act or gesture may include but is not limited to, an incident or incidents that may be reasonably perceived as being motivated by characteristics such as Race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or mental, physical, or sensory disability, intellectual ability or by any other distinguishing characteristics.
Bullying most often occurs as repeated behavior and often is not a single incident between the bullying/cyber- bullying offender(s) and the bullying victim(s).
CYBER-BULLYING: Cyberbullying is bullying through the use of technology or electronic devices such as telephones, cell phones, computers, fax machines, and the Internet. It includes, but is not limited to, email, instant messages, text messages, and Internet postings, whether on a web page, in a blog, any form of social media or otherwise.
Forms of cyber-bullying may include but are not limited to: a. The creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person; b. The knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages; or c. The distribution by electronic means of a communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the creation, impersonation, or distribution results in any of the conditions enumerated in clauses (a) to (e) of the definition of bullying.
AT SCHOOL means: a. on school premises, b. at any school-sponsored activity or event whether or not it is held on school premises, c. on a school-transportation vehicle, d. at an official school bus stop, e. using property or equipment provided by the school, or
25 f. acts which create a material and substantial disruption of the education process or the orderly operation of the school.
Harassment or Discrimination: Illegal harassment or discrimination is conduct or behavior which relates to race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, physical or mental disability, national origin, or ancestry or other protected category and is personally offensive or threatening, impairs the morale, or is so pervasive or severe that it has the purpose or effect of: • Creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment; • Interfering unreasonably with an individual’s academic performance; or • Creating a situation where the academic decisions of a student depend on their submitting to and/or not objecting to the behavior.
Discrimination and harassment can take many forms. Examples include but are not limited to: 1) limiting opportunities to participate in certain clubs, teams or activities based on certain characteristics; 2) slurs, jokes, statements, remarks, questions, gestures, pictures, emails, texts or cartoons regarding legally protected status that are derogatory or demeaning to an individual’s or group’s characteristics or that promote stereotypes; 3) demands sexual favors in exchange for favorable treatment, academic rewards or continued participation in a program or project; 4) offensive or unwelcome sexual flirtation, advances or touching; 5) obscene, demeaning or abusive commentary about an individual’s body or other personal characteristics; 6) audiotaping or videotaping individuals in potentially embarrassing situations and/or forwarding such taped material to others; and 7) responding to refusals to provide sexual favors with verbal, emotional or physical abuse.
2. SCHOOL CLIMATE Bullying, cyberbullying, and retaliation against any person associated with a report of bullying or the investigation thereof is prohibited at St. Andrew’s School. School staff shall take all reasonable measures to prevent bullying at school. Such measures may include professional development and prevention activities, parental workshops, and student assemblies among other strategies. School faculty, administration, and staff, at all times, will model courteous behavior to each other, to students, and to school visitors. Abusive or humiliating language or demeanor will not be accepted. Additionally, students and their families are expected to exhibit courteous behavior to all members of the learning community in the school and at school-sponsored events.
3. POLICY OVERSIGHT and RESPONSIBILITY The Head of School shall be responsible for the implementation and oversight of this bullying policy. The Head of School shall provide the governing board with a summary report of incidents, responses, and any other bullying-related issues at least twice annually.
4. INFORMATION DISSEMINATION The Head of School shall ensure that students, staff, volunteers, and parents/legal guardians are provided information regarding this Policy. This information shall include methods of discouraging and preventing this type of behavior, the procedure to file a complaint, and the disciplinary action that may be taken against those who commit acts in violation of this policy. This policy shall be: a. Distributed annually to students, staff, volunteers, and parents/legal guardians
26 b. Included in student codes of conduct, disciplinary policies, and student handbooks c. A prominently posted link on the homepage of the school’s website
5. REPORTING The Head of School shall establish, and prominently publicize to students, staff, volunteers, and parents/ guardians, how a report of bullying may be filed and how this report will be acted upon. The victim of bullying, anyone who witnesses an incidence of bullying, and anyone who has credible information that an act of bullying has taken place may file a report of bullying. Any student or staff member who believes he/she is being bullied should immediately report such circumstances to an appropriate staff member, teacher or administrator. At St. Andrew’s, the Dean of Students is the school’s harassment officer. Written forms used to file a report of bullying will be available through the Dean of Students, and downloadable through the school’s website.
Parents / Guardians of the victim of bullying and parents/ guardians of the alleged perpetrator of the bullying shall be notified within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident report. When there is reasonable suspicion that a child is either a bully or a victim of bullying, the parents/ guardians of the child will be notified immediately by the Dean of Students or other administrators.
Responsibility of Staff: School staff, including volunteers, who observe an act of bullying or who have reasonable grounds to believe that bullying is taking place must report the bullying to school authorities. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
Responsibility of Students: Students who observe an act of bullying or who have reasonable grounds to believe that bullying is taking place must report the bullying to school authorities. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. The victim of bullying, however, shall not be subject to discipline for failing to report the bullying. Student reports of bullying or retaliation may be made anonymously, provided, however, that no disciplinary action shall be taken against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report.
Prohibition against Retaliation: Retaliation or threats of retaliation in any form designed to intimidate the victim of bullying, those who are witnesses to bullying, or those investigating an incident of bullying shall not be tolerated. Retaliation or threat of retaliation will result in the imposition of discipline in accordance with the school behavior code.
False Reporting/Accusations: A school employee, school volunteer or student who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation shall be disciplined in accordance with the school behavior code.
Reports in Good Faith: A school employee, school volunteer, student, parent/ legal guardian, or caregiver who promptly reports, in good faith, an act of bullying to the appropriate school official designated in the school’s policy shall be immune from a cause of action for damages arising from reporting bullying.
6. INVESTIGATION/RESPONSE The Head of School shall promptly investigate all allegations of bullying, harassment, or intimidation. If the allegation is found to be credible, appropriate disciplinary actions, subject to applicable due process requirements, will be imposed. Any qualified staff members may be utilized to mediate bullying situations. The investigation will include an assessment by the school counselor of what effect the bullying, harassment or intimidation has had on the victim. A student who engages in continuous and/or serious acts of bullying will also be referred to the school counselor. The Dean of Students, or Head of School’s designee, will typically investigate the reported incident. Following disposition, all records of complaints will be retained by the School. These records will be accessible on a 27 need-to-know basis only.
Police Notification: Immediate notification of the local law enforcement agency will be made when circumstances warrant the pursuit of criminal charges against the perpetrator.
Protection: If a student is the victim of serious or persistent bullying: a. The Head of School will intervene immediately to provide the student with a safe educational environment. b. The interventions will be developed, if possible, with input from the student, their parent/guardian, and staff. c. The parents/ guardians of a victim shall also be notified of the action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying or retaliation.
7. DISCIPLINARY ACTION The disciplinary actions for violations of the bullying policy shall be determined by the school. Disciplinary actions for violations of the bullying policy shall balance the need for accountability with the need to teach appropriate behavior. The severity of the disciplinary action shall be aligned to the severity of the bullying behavior. The range of disciplinary actions that may be taken against the perpetrator for bullying, cyberbullying or retaliation shall include, but not be limited to: a. Admonitions and warnings b. Parental/ Guardian notification and meetings c. Detention d. In-school suspension e. Loss of school-provided transportation or loss of student parking pass f. Loss of the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities g. Loss of the opportunity to participate in school social activities h. Loss of the opportunity to participate in graduation exercises or middle school promotional activities i. Police contact j. School suspension k. Dismissal
8. SOCIAL SERVICES/COUNSELING Referral to appropriate counseling and/or social services currently being offered by schools or communities shall be provided for bullying victims, perpetrators and appropriate family members of said students.
9. SOCIAL NETWORKING Students shall be prohibited from accessing social networking sites in school, except for educational or instructional purposes and with prior approval from school administration.
10. OTHER REDRESS This section does not prevent a victim of bullying, cyberbullying or retaliation from seeking redress under any other available law, either civil or criminal. This section does not create or alter any tort liability.
11. ADOPTION OF POLICY The governing bodies of all schools approved for the purpose of §§16-19-1 and 16-19-2 shall adopt this Policy by June 30, 2012.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND DATING VIOLENCE
28 St. Andrew’s policy towards dating violence is in accordance with Rhode Island’s Lindsay Ann Burke Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Ann. §§ 16-85-1 and 16-85-2).
The school condemns and expressly prohibits sexual contact or relationships between adults and students and sexual harassment of any kind. While the school must comply with state and federal laws dealing with sexual harassment, our policy also seeks to educate members of the community about the nature of sexual harassment and to do whatever we can to prevent it from occurring. Abusive or violent behavior in the context of a dating relationship, regardless of gender, will not be tolerated.
Sexual Harassment is defined as sexual advances (either verbal or physical), requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which affects a student’s emotional wellbeing or interferes with a student’s academic performance or participation in co-curricular or extracurricular activities, or which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning or social environment.
By the same token, harassment of an adult by a student or by another adult may have legal implications. Sexual harassment of an adult occurs under the law when submission to such conduct is either an explicit or implicit term or condition of employment or any employment decision (e.g., promotion, training, timekeeping or overtime assignments, etc.); or the conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s work performance, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment.
The school is unequivocally committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of student growth. We actively educate each and every member of the school community about the proper roles and relationships that comprise community life. We set forth and seek every opportunity to talk about the importance of boundaries. We expect that the life experience of adults at the school will enrich the student’s learning experience. We place the student’s best interests above all other considerations.
Identifying Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment can take various forms, many of which violate state or federal laws. It may be behavior that is repeated, or it may be behavior that occurs only once. It is not social or courting behavior between equals, but rather the assertion of power over another individual that puts that individual at a disadvantage.
It is the responsibility of all members of the community to ensure that their words, actions, and interactions with others always reflect the intent to promote respect and trust. Attempts to justify such behavior as a “prank” or “joke” do not change its harassing nature if the object of the joke is not a willing participant. Whatever the basis for the harassment, it is prohibited.
When trying to identify whether the behavior is “harassing,” it is crucial to distinguish student-to-student interactions from sexual intimacy between students and adults, which is always prohibited. Physical contact between students that is intended and perceived by those involved as positive, healthy, and appropriate to their age and experience is likely to occur. However, inappropriate physical relationships between students are described and prohibited in the school’s written expectations of students.
When these behaviors occur between an adult and a student, it is irrelevant whether the behavior is welcome or unwelcome. There is no circumstance in which these behaviors between adults and students are permissible.
The following behaviors are examples of harassing behaviors. The list is suggestive rather than exhaustive, and members of the community should seek advice and assistance in any circumstance in which they are made to feel 29 uncomfortable by the behaviors of another.
Some examples of harassment are: • Physical assault, including rape or any coerced or nonconsensual sexual relations whether in a pre-existing relationship or not • Sexual advances, whether they involve physical touching or not • Sexual physical contact • Sexual or lewd jokes, remarks, leering, whistling, brushing against the body, or other suggestive or insulting gestures or comments about another's body • Discussion of one’s own sexual experiences or activities, or inquiries into one’s sexual experiences or activities unless appropriate to medical, counseling or disciplinary situations • Audiotaping or videotaping others in sexual or other potentially embarrassing circumstances and forwarding or threatening to forward the taped material to others • Intimidating or suggestive remarks about an individual’s sexual orientation, whether actual or implied • Sexually suggestive or degrading sounds or remarks (written, oral, or electronically transmitted), including graffiti and the spreading of sexual rumors, made to or about another member of the community • The use of school technology to transmit sexually suggestive, offensive, and/or degrading material, whether received at the school or elsewhere • The open display of sexually offensive objects, pictures, and messages
Dating Violence: ”Dating violence” means a pattern of behavior where one person uses threats of or actually uses, physical, sexual, verbal or emotional abuse to control their dating partner. “Dating partner” means any person, regardless of gender, involved in an intimate relationship with another primarily characterized by the expectation of affectionate involvement whether casual, serious or long-term. (Lindsay Ann Burke Act)
Some examples of dating violence are: • Physical—This occurs when a partner is pinched, hit, shoved, slapped, punched, or kicked. • Psychological/Emotional—This means threatening a partner or harming their sense of self-worth. Examples include name-calling, shaming, bullying, embarrassing on purpose, or keeping him/her away from friends and family. • Sexual—This is forcing a partner to engage in a sex act when he or she does not or cannot consent. This can be physical or nonphysical, like threatening to spread rumors if a partner refuses to have sex. • Stalking—This refers to a pattern of harassing or threatening tactics that are unwanted and cause fear in the victim. Dating violence can take place in person or electronically, such as repeated texting or posting sexual pictures of a partner online.
Procedures for Reporting The Head of School shall establish, and prominently publicize to students, staff, volunteers, and parents/ guardians, how a report of sexual harassment or dating violence may be filed and how this report will be acted upon. The victim of sexual harassment or dating violence, anyone who witnesses an incidence of sexual harassment or dating violence, and anyone who has credible information that an act of sexual harassment or dating violence has taken place may file a report of sexual harassment or dating violence. Any student or staff member who believes he/she is being sexually harassed or a victim of dating violence should immediately report such circumstances to an appropriate staff member, teacher or administrator. At St. Andrew’s, the Dean of Students is the school’s harassment officer. Written forms used to file a report of sexual harassment or dating violence will be available through the Dean of Students, and downloadable through the school’s website.
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Once a report of sexual harassment or dating violence involving students is made, the Dean of Students will typically investigate the reported incident. This is frequently done in conjunction with the Health Center staff. In some cases, the Head of School may ask other administrators or an outside investigator to help conduct the investigation. Following disposition, all records of complaints will be retained by the Dean of Students and by the school’s attorney. These records will be accessible on a need-to-know basis only.
While the school cannot promise strict confidentiality, because information must be shared in order to conduct an effective investigation, the school releases information concerning complaints of sexual harassment and dating violence only on a need-to-know basis, such as to conduct a comprehensive investigation or to ensure that the requirements of this policy and applicable law are met.
Responsibility of Staff: School staff, including volunteers, who observe an act of sexual harassment or dating violence or who have reasonable grounds to believe that sexual harassment or dating violence is taking place must report the sexual harassment or dating violence to school authorities. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
Responsibility of Students: Students who observe an act of sexual harassment or dating violence or who have reasonable grounds to believe that sexual harassment or dating violence is taking place must report the sexual harassment or dating violence to school authorities and/or Health Center staff. Student reports of sexual harassment or dating violence may be made anonymously, provided, however, that no disciplinary action shall be taken against a student solely on the basis of an anonymous report.
Prohibition against Retaliation: Retaliation or threats of retaliation in any form designed to intimidate the victim of sexual harassment or dating violence, those who are witnesses to sexual harassment or dating violence, or those investigating an incident of sexual harassment or dating violence shall not be tolerated. Retaliation or threat of retaliation will result in the imposition of discipline in accordance with the school behavior code.
False Reporting/Accusations: A school employee, school volunteer or student who knowingly makes a false accusation of sexual harassment or dating violence shall be disciplined in accordance with the school behavior code.
Reports in Good Faith: A school employee, school volunteer, student, parent/ legal guardian, or caregiver who promptly reports, in good faith, an act of sexual harassment or dating violence to the appropriate school official designated in the school’s policy shall be immune from a cause of action for damages arising from reporting sexual harassment or dating violence.
INVESTIGATION/RESPONSE The Head of School shall promptly investigate all allegations of sexual harassment or dating violence. If the allegation is found to be credible, appropriate disciplinary actions, subject to applicable due process requirements, will be imposed. The investigation will include an assessment by the school counselor of what effect(s) the sexual harassment or dating violence has had on the victim. A student who engages in continuous and/or serious acts of sexual harassment or dating violence will also be referred to the school counselor. The Dean of Students, or Head of School’s designee, will typically investigate the reported incident. Following disposition, all records of complaints will be retained by the School. These records will be accessible on a need-to-know basis only.
Police Notification: Immediate notification of the local law enforcement agency will be made when circumstances warrant the pursuit of criminal charges against the perpetrator.
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Protection: If a student is the victim of serious or persistent sexual harassment or dating violence: a. The Head of School will intervene immediately to provide the student with a safe educational environment. b. The interventions will be developed, if possible, with input from the student, their parent/guardian, and staff. c. The parents/ guardians of a target shall also be notified of the action taken to prevent any further acts of sexual harassment or dating violence.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION The disciplinary actions for violations of the sexual harassment or dating violence policy shall be determined by the school. Disciplinary actions for violations of the sexual harassment or dating violence policy shall be determined by the need for the safety of the student. Efforts to educate about safe, healthy dating relationships will be implemented as well. The severity of the disciplinary action shall be aligned to the severity of the sexual harassment or dating violence behavior.
The range of disciplinary actions that may be taken against a perpetrator for sexual harassment or dating violence shall include, but not be limited to: a. Admonitions and warnings b. Parental/ Guardian notification and meetings c. Detention d. In-school suspension e. Loss of school-provided transportation or loss of student parking pass f. Loss of the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities g. Loss of the opportunity to participate in school social activities h. Loss of the opportunity to participate in graduation exercises or middle school promotional activities i. Police contact j. School suspension k. Dismissal
SOCIAL SERVICES/COUNSELING Referral to appropriate counseling and/or social services currently being offered by schools or communities shall be provided for bullying victims, perpetrators and appropriate family members of said students.
Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting The school is dedicated to the goal of protecting its students from child abuse and neglect and to responding effectively to incidents of child abuse and neglect. The school will work cooperatively with all agencies responsible for addressing child abuse and neglect, including the Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) and the police. Under Rhode Island law, all school employees are required to report suspected abuse or neglect of children under the age of 18. Under school policy, any school employee who believes that a report should be filed with the DCYF is also required to inform the Head of School or the Head of School’s designate.
Child abuse and neglect includes verbal abuse, physical abuse, acting or failing to act in a way that puts a child's welfare and health at risk, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation (including prostitution and pornography), excessive corporal punishment, abandonment, failure to provide the minimum degree of care or proper supervision and failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter or medical care.
32 The school takes seriously all reports of child abuse, whether reported to occur at school or outside of school and will report all cases to the appropriate authorities. If a student or parent believes that the student has been subjected to child abuse or neglect by a school employee, or if the student or parent suspects or witnesses any incident of child abuse or neglect by a school employee, the student or parent should contact the Head of School or any other administrator to report such Incident.
Reports in Good Faith: A school employee, school volunteer, student, parent/ legal guardian, or caregiver who promptly reports, in good faith, child abuse and neglect to the appropriate school official designated in the school’s policy shall be immune from a cause of action for damages arising from reporting child abuse and neglect.
Statement on Consensual Sexual Behavior St. Andrew’s School recognizes that the desire to be intimate with another person can be a normal part of human development. At the same time, given the complicated personal emotional and legal issues surrounding sexual intimacy, the school does not endorse or condone intimate sexual activity among students on campus. Through our Community Life Programs, Counseling Services, and the Health Center we seek to support and educate students in making wise individual decisions while providing accurate information about sexuality and sexual behavior. We cover a range of topics with students, including Rhode Island laws regarding consent, reproduction, contraception and sexually transmitted infections. Students who would like to talk about the meaning of sexual intimacy in a relationship, or students who are in a situation where sexual activity has taken place and want to report or discuss the situation, should talk with a trusted adult or a member of the school’s Health Center so that appropriate support may be given.
DISCIPLINARY ACTION AND CONSEQUENCES Detention - Students assigned to detention remain on campus for an additional hour or their detention may take place during lunch or study hall. During detention, students will be required to participate in an enrichment activity and/or perform some service that benefits the community. Detention is held daily, Monday - Friday, and students should expect to serve their detention at the earliest opportunity.
Conduct Probation – Students who have frequent and/or serious difficulty accepting and adhering to the rules, policies, and standards of the School are placed on Conduct Probation. Whether such placement is the result of a single major infraction or a pattern of lesser infractions, it should be seen by the student and their family as a judgment by the School that a significant change of behavior must occur if the student is to continue at St. Andrew’s. The Dean of Students works with a student who has been placed on probation to fill out a contract stipulating the length of time he/she will have to remain on probation, as well as the requirements that must be met to be removed from this list. Depending on the severity of the infraction(s), students are placed on probation for a period of time ranging from two to six weeks. If a student accumulates 12 probation weeks in one year, a dismissal hearing will be scheduled.
The following Restrictions Apply to Students on Conduct Probation: • Not allowed in academic buildings, athletic facilities, or Student Center during lunch • Must wear the standard dress code when a relaxed dress code has been announced • May not be excused from their study hall except with a pass from their classroom teacher, to visit either the library or another teacher, and their assignment will be checked upon their return • May not be eligible to attend field trips or class outings • Participation in extracurricular activities/performances/competitions may be restricted • Day students must leave campus after sports and may not return to campus until the following class day • Day students may lose automobile privileges 33 • Day Students must report to the Dean of Students at 7:55 am on weekdays • Boarding students may check out after sports but are due back on Campus at 5:30 pm • Boarding students report to the Dean of Students at 7:45 am on weekdays • Boarding students are not permitted in the dorm between 8 am and 3 pm on weekdays • Boarding students cannot sign off campus except on supervised school trips. They must be in a supervised location throughout the weekend. • Boarding students may also forfeit additional residential life privileges
In-School Suspension - Suspension occurs when a student has committed an infraction, or pattern of infractions, more serious than those resulting in detention or loss of position/privilege. Students who are assigned in-school suspension are removed from classes and spend the day in a restricted space. At the end of the academic day, these students go to their adviser or classroom teacher and then to their sports or activities. If the student is a member of one of our interscholastic teams, he or she may attend a home game and sit on the bench but is not allowed to play.
Home Suspension - Home suspension occurs when a student has committed an infraction or pattern of infractions more serious than those resulting in detention, loss of position/privilege and in-school suspension. Students who are assigned home suspension are not allowed to come on campus or participate in school activities, on or off-campus, during the period of their suspension. Conduct Probation accompanies all home suspensions. The Following Academic Policies Apply to Students Who Are Suspended: • Students will be given homework to do while out of class • The homework must be turned in on or before the day they return to get credit • Students cannot earn credit for classwork, daily participation, quizzes, etc. (classwork can be provided to keep students current, but it will not be counted toward the grade) • Students can make up tests; they must be prepared to do so on the day they return
Dismissal - Dismissal is a judgment from the School community that we can no longer work with a student. When a student is dismissed or withdraws with a disciplinary action pending, the student thereafter will not be allowed on campus or at school activities without the permission of the Head of School or the Dean of Students.
Students who are dismissed must make arrangements to remove all belongings from campus within ten days of dismissal. These arrangements must be approved in advance by the business office. After ten days, St. Andrew’s will not be responsible for any personal belongings.
CAMPUS BUILDINGS AND FACILITIES Dining Hall – Meal times afford the opportunity to enjoy food and conversation with other members of the school community. Students should be courteous while waiting for their food. In addition, they should clear dishes and leave tables clean. Appropriate attire, including a shirt and shoes, must be worn at all meals. Hats, bare midriffs, T-shirts advertising alcohol, drugs, or tobacco, etc. may not be worn in the dining hall. Food may only be taken from the dining hall with permission from the cook on duty. Headphone use is not allowed in the dining hall. Formal dinners and theme nights will be scheduled monthly; attendance is required for boarding students (and encouraged for day students) and appropriate dress is mandatory.
Student Center – The Student Center is a recreational space housing an entertainment center, stereo, games, pool table, snack bar, and the School Store. In warm weather, students may enjoy the outdoor patio. The Student Center is open at various times during the day; specific hours are announced in the fall. The Student Center also serves as headquarters for the Weekend Duty Team, and it is open every Friday night and Saturday.
34 Academic Buildings – Students are not allowed to loiter in buildings outside of normal class time (i.e. early morning or late afternoon). Students who arrive before 8:00 am report to the dining hall or Student Center where they must remain until Morning Meeting.
Gymnasiums and Fitness Center – Each of these facilities have specific rules governing their use. Typically, students will not be granted access to these facilities without faculty and/or staff supervision
Lockers – Lockers are assigned to all upper school day students. Books not in use for the class in session should be carried or kept in the student’s locker. Students are advised not to leave valuables in their lockers. Students are issued a school padlock to secure belongings and parents will be billed $15.00 for locks that are lost or not returned. Students are responsible for maintaining clean and graffiti-free lockers. The school reserves the right to inspect lockers at any time.
Student Identification Cards – Students are issued a photo ID within the first month of classes. Students will also be issued a separate FOB which will serve as each student’s key to the Fitness Center and their dormitories. Students will be assessed a $15.00 replacement fee for lost identification or FOB.
AUTOMOBILES All student cars must be registered with the Dean of Students. Boarding students are not permitted to have or drive a car on campus, including a day student’s car.
Students must operate their vehicles cautiously and responsibly. The privilege of parking and driving on campus may be revoked if students do not adhere to our guidelines. Cars are only to be used as a means of transporting students to and from school. Cars are not to be used as lockers or lounges. Once a student has parked their car, there is no reason to return to it until he/she departs at the end of the day. As an exception, Chapin List students do have permission to use their automobiles to leave campus during the day. In addition, when senior privileges take effect, seniors who are not on Conduct Probation may also use their automobiles during the school day.
Any student who wishes to drive another student must make sure he/she and the passenger have the appropriate parental and school permission. Drivers and passengers without these permissions will be subject to penalties, including assignment to Conduct Probation and/or suspension.
Day students should enter and leave campus by the Lower Campus Road. Without specific permission, students are not allowed near dorm areas, nor are they to use the Upper Campus Road. Students must park in the Lower Campus Road lot or the Sage Gymnasium lot. Students may not leave campus in the afternoon between advising and activities.
Senior boarding students on the Chapin List, with permission from the Head of School, are allowed to maintain automobiles on campus under established guidelines. Parent permission must be on file, liability insurance must be in place, and the cars must be registered with the Dean of Students.
Violations of these policies, especially leaving campus without permission and transporting students who should not be leaving campus, may result in loss of campus car privileges, assignment to Conduct Probation and/or suspension.
COMMUNITY SERVICE In keeping with the mission and guiding principles of St. Andrew’s, community service is recognized as an essential and valued element of our program. Our service requirement is an attempt to broaden students’ social awareness, as well as to instill in young people the lifelong practice of compassion in action. At St. Andrew’s, we believe high school is a crucial time for students to develop a distinguished character that they may carry through their adulthood.
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Our Community Service Graduation Requirements are as follows: Middle School: community service is completed throughout the year. • Freshmen - 10 hours of service on campus, to be performed anytime during the school year (hours completed working off-campus for the school’s Annual Charity are also counted) • Sophomores - 20 hours of service on or off-campus. • Juniors - 30 hours of service on or off-campus. • Seniors - 40 hours of service on or off-campus.
For seniors, all hours must be completed by May 15. The seniors who do not complete their hours are ineligible to attend graduation. Underclassmen must complete their hours by the end of the 4th quarter. Those who do not will be required to create an action plan to complete their hours upon their return to school. Additionally, underclassmen will be required to serve detention hours during exam week for each hour of community service that they fail to complete during the school year. All service hours must be documented on our Service Documentation Form or on letterhead from the agency where the student has volunteered. Documented community service hours should be submitted to the Coordinator of Community Service.
Service for your family, extracurricular activities, basic human kindness, and courtesy do not count as service hours. The spirit of service is for students to extend themselves in ways that will assist a community project or help answer an authentic community need. The intent is for students to develop the habit of looking beyond themselves, engaging in the community, and becoming active, empowered citizens.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL: Grade 8: All students take a leadership seminar during the first quarter and are expected to complete a year long leadership project that captures an aspect of the Chapin Tradition, which culminates in the spring. All Grades: All students are presented with the opportunity to develop the agenda for and lead Middle School Morning Meeting, which takes place each Monday during the academic year.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP IN THE UPPER SCHOOL: Student Government – Student leaders are elected by their peers each spring. Typically, the junior and senior classes each select a set of four officers to govern. The underclassmen are usually led by two, three or four general representatives. Faculty advisers for each class work closely with the student leaders to shape the classes’ identity and vision. In general, student leaders are expected to be exemplary members of the community. They are obliged to maintain good standing both in and out of the classroom. Student leaders should appropriately and energetically fulfill their roles. They should press to advance class pride and unity, and plan, promote and direct benevolent endeavors. Community service hours can subsequently be awarded to students participating in student government. Additionally, contingent upon endorsement from their class advisers, student leaders may be granted further campus privileges, at the discretion of the Director of Student Life.
Chapin List – The Chapin List is comprised of juniors and seniors who have the respect of our community and who have shown reliable consistency in their community involvement, leadership ability, maturity of temperament, and 36 problem-solving ability. These students are deemed worthy of the community’s trust and are expected to act as student leaders and role models for the rest of the student body. Appointment to the Chapin List is accompanied by particular responsibilities and privileges. Members of the Chapin List are selected by a committee of five faculty members who review the following information prior to making eligibility decisions: • Application: This requires endorsement signatures from the student’s adviser, dorm parents (if applicable), and two additional faculty members, in addition to an essay that addresses the topics listed on the application. • Community Service: All community service hours need to be properly documented and recorded by the Coordinator of Community Service. The number of hours indicated is toward the current school year. Seniors need to have completed 25 hours for the October application and 50 hours for the February application. Juniors need to have completed 20 hours for the October application and 40 hours for the February application. Five additional hours will be required per quarter for Chapin Students. • Faculty/Dorm Parent/Staff/Current Chapin Student Questionnaires: Questionnaires must be filled out by all of the applicant’s current teachers and dorm parents. Students are also encouraged to solicit additional endorsements from former teachers and other members of the community. Current Chapin List students will also be asked to complete questionnaires regarding their peers when possible. • Academic Effort: This is assessed through teacher endorsements or status on the Effort Honor Roll. Applicants may not currently be on Academic Probation. • Discipline History: The student’s disciplinary past, in relation to their development over time, is also taken into account. Applicants may not currently be on Conduct Probation. • Interview with the Chapin Committee: A 10-15 minute interview affords each applicant an opportunity to share their attitudes and beliefs about leadership, character, and virtue.
Responsibilities Members of the Chapin List will be assigned, and expected to fulfill, leadership positions that exist or may arise, in the community (ex. Student-Faculty Discipline Committee members, Admissions Ambassadors). Chapin List students will also be expected to lead at least one project initiative which improves the St. Andrew’s community during the school year. They are expected to attend student performances and athletic events. Responsibilities may be rotated among the Chapin List students, depending upon need and time constraints. Chapin List students will meet regularly with the Dean of Students.
Privileges: • Allowed access to the dining hall throughout the day • Allowed to leave campus during the school day • Do not have to attend scheduled study halls during the school day (for safety reasons, students must let the study hall proctor know where they will be on campus: library, student center, gym, or own dorm) • May use the gym or Student Center during free time • Boarding students are not assigned a time for “lights out” • Additional privileges may be added throughout the year
Regular reviews of Chapin List members’ performances will be conducted by the committee and the Dean of Students. Any faculty or staff member who has concerns about a Chapin List student’s performance should communicate them to the Dean of Students. Any student assigned to Conduct Probation will be immediately removed from the Chapin List.
37 National Honor Society - • Students are invited to apply to NHS during their junior and senior years after semester grades have been calculated. Juniors are invited in the Fall and Spring; Seniors are only invited in the Fall • Students must have been at St. Andrew’s for at least one full year, and must have maintained a GPA of at least 3.5 • They cannot have any serious disciplinary issues • Each nominee must have completed the minimum required service hours for their year, (Juniors: 30 hours, Seniors: 40 hours) • If the selected students choose to pursue membership, then they must document their accomplishments, complete self-evaluations, ask their teachers for recommendations, and write a number of reflective essays on their character, leadership, and service experiences • Once the application is completed and submitted on time, the students are considered for membership and must receive a majority vote by the five members of the Faculty Selection Committee Understanding the Obligations of the National Honor Society Membership Membership is an honor and a privilege which obligates you to demonstrate those outstanding qualities which resulted in your selection. Students who accept membership should be aware of the time and commitment involved with this honor. It is required that all members attend chapter meetings and participate in the chapter’s service projects.
Questions involving the nomination, application, selection process, as well as the full list of the obligations of membership for the school’s chapter, should be directed to the National Honor Society Adviser.
Dorm Proctors - Members of the community select students to lead each dorm. (See Residential Life for more information about proctor responsibilities and privileges.)
SENIOR PRIVILEGES As students progress through the Upper School, they assume increased responsibility and are granted greater freedom. Seniors are expected to be leaders among the student body and are frequently assigned supervisory roles within the community. In the 4th quarter, as a transition to “life after St. Andrew’s,” seniors are granted the following privileges: • Those not on Conduct Probation may leave campus during free time. (Parent permission must be on file and permission is to be granted on a case-by-case basis by the Dean of Students.) • Chapin List boarding seniors may keep automobiles on campus with the permission of the Head of School. • They may choose not to attend class-day study halls.
Each senior class may work out additional privileges with the Head of School. In addition, Seniors on Conduct Probation, Academic Probation, or those who have not met community service completion deadlines are not eligible for senior privileges.
SPECIAL EVENTS AND TRADITIONS Registration and Orientation Registration is held prior to the first day of classes and the program varies according to a student’s enrollment status. Orientation occurs before school begins. A summer mailing will include specific information about the Registration and Orientation Weekend schedule and events. Students who have not fulfilled the registration requirements, including the completion of all medical and permission forms, will not be considered properly enrolled and will not be allowed to attend classes. 38
Senior Mountain Day Each September, the Head of School and the Senior Class Advisers join the senior class in climbing New Hampshire’s Mt. Monadnock. This annual tradition fortifies and unifies the senior class at the outset of their final year. Transportation and meals are provided, and attendance is mandatory for all able-bodied seniors.
Spirit Week and Olympiad Day In September class pride is fostered and class unity is strengthened through a week of lighthearted, intra-school competition. Spirit Week culminates with Olympiad Day, at which time the classes compete against each other in relay races, brainteasers, and a tug-o’-war.
Edward C. Barrett ’31 Pie Race In the fall, the School sponsors the Edward C. Barrett ’31 Pie Race here on campus. The late Ed Barrett was an alumnus, class of 1931, a King Medal winner, a teacher, and a member of our Board of Trustees. The pie race is a one-mile run, jog, or walk, open to all students, staff, and friends who wish to participate. The two student winners receive an apple pie. All students who fare well against the Head of School are also rewarded.
Family Weekend The Family Weekend program offers friends and families an opportunity to visit campus and engage the community. Current St. Andrew’s students are encouraged to participate in a host of events and activities on campus throughout the weekend.
Prom In order to attend this event, students must remain in school until dismissal time on the last day of school prior to the Prom. Students who are absent from school that day, even with an excuse or a doctor’s note, may not attend the Prom. It is imperative that all those attending the Prom understand that this is a school sponsored event and that the conduct expectations and rules outlined in this handbook apply to all those attending the Prom. St. Andrew’s students will be responsible for the behavior of any guest who attends.
Award Ceremonies and Commencement Throughout the year we give recognition to students who have demonstrated achievement in academics or extracurricular areas. Athletic awards are given during the course of the year to honor participating students. The evening before Commencement, Awards Night is held, and special academic and athletic awards are presented. Attendance at Awards Night is required for all students. The dress code for Awards Night is a tie, dress shirt, slacks and shoes, a dress, dressy pants, or a skirt and blouse.
The Commencement ceremony is a joyous occasion honoring the graduating class. The community comes together to recognize the culmination of their individual and collective efforts and achievements. It is a full School event beginning with a march by the student body, faculty, and trustees. Attendance is required for all students. The dress code for Commencement is a tie, dress shirt, slacks and shoes, a dress, dressy pants, or a skirt and blouse. A reception follows the ceremony. Parents are required to notify the Head of School in advance if their student will not be able to attend Awards Night or Commencement. Students who do not attend these events without the Head of School’s consent will be assigned to Conduct Probation.
39 H E A L T H PROGRAM The purpose of the Health Center is to provide support and services that ensure the wellbeing of the whole student, enabling him or her to take full advantage of the social and academic opportunities at St. Andrew’s School. The Health Center is staffed by a counselor and a nurse. Both are “on-call” during evening hours and on weekends for specific needs. Outside counseling can be coordinated upon request. The counselor can assist with referrals to therapists in the community. Medical and psychological sub-specialists are available when a referral is indicated. Subspecialists include orthodontists, orthopedists, and gynecologists. Health care at St. Andrew’s includes all aspects of student health. Services include treating ailments and injuries, dispensing over-the-counter and prescribed medications, support programming in terminating use/abuse of tobacco, drugs, or alcohol, dealing with all levels of eating disorders, emotional distress, and any other situation which might adversely affect the well-being of a student.
PROCEDURES Physical Exams and Health Records – All students must have physical examination records and immunization forms on file prior to beginning classes. Currently, the school uses an online service called Magnus Health to assist in the collection and storage of health forms. The forms should be returned to Magnus Health prior to the start of the school year. Students will not be allowed to register or attend classes until all forms are on file.
Morning Sick Calls – Parents of day students too ill to attend classes should call the front office before 8:30 am at 401.246.1230. Parents can also email [email protected].
If students are absent for more than two days due to illness, the parents should contact the school nurse and provide a doctor's note or treatment plan, if possible.
Boarding students who are ill, or have health concerns, are required to report to the nurse between 7:30 and 7:50 am. The level of health will be assessed and the appropriate measures will be taken.
Class Day Procedures – The nurse is available during the day to dispense medication and provide routine medical treatment. Boarding students who are ill and unable to attend class will be kept in the Health Center infirmary during the day. At the end of the day, the student’s level of health will be evaluated, and parents will be notified, if necessary. Day students who become too ill to attend classes may be sent home by the school nurse after parents have been contacted. Students sent home as a result of illness will not be allowed to return that day for classes or other school functions.
Physician’s Visits – Parents of day students will be expected to schedule routine doctors’ appointments for their children. Also, in emergencies, parents of day students will be expected to assume responsibility for their child’s care whenever possible. When a boarding student experiences an injury, acute illness, long term illness lacking in definition, or a general state of “non-health,” the school nurse will make arrangements for a visit to the physician.
Laboratory tests may be part of the physician’s diagnostic workup. These tests may include x-rays, blood work, urinalysis, etc. Tests may be used to determine the cause of all conditions of non-health, ranging from viruses to the use or abuse of drugs and/or alcohol.
Every effort will be made to notify and involve parents in any extensive medical or psychological appointment
40 or situation. Parents are encouraged to participate as much as possible in the care of their child. All extensive diagnostic testing or procedures should be done over vacations to prevent the loss of academic time.
Medications – All medications, for both boarding and day students, must be dispensed through the Health Center. These include both prescription and over-the-counter medications. No medications are allowed in students’ rooms (exception: inhalers prescribed for acute asthma attacks or EpiPens for anaphylaxis may be in a student’s possession). Prescription medications to treat acute illness or to maintain chronic conditions, and over-the-counter medications, including vitamins and natural remedies and supplements, conforming with the School’s Standing Orders, will be dispensed by the nurse’s office during the day and by the dorm parents during the evening hours and on weekends. All requests for the dispensing of prescription medications must be accompanied by a doctor’s order. Any medication given to the nurse must be in the original bottle. Parents are responsible for notifying the nurse when there are any changes in or concerns about a student’s medications.
Payment for Services – All students attending St. Andrew’s School are required to have appropriate health care coverage. Payment for services is by direct billing to the parents/legal guardians. St. Andrew’s School is not responsible for payment of health-related charges rendered outside of the Health Center. For private insurance companies, parents must provide the Health Center with their insurance forms. Please note that some medical offices charge for the completion of insurance forms. The cost of medications is deducted from the student’s bank account.
Communications – In any emergency or unusual health situation, every effort will be made to contact parents. If a student needs to be hospitalized or has long-term health needs, parents will be expected to be present to participate in the decisions necessary to ensure the wellbeing of their child.
In the case of non-emergency “off-campus” appointments for boarding students, parents are contacted. Parents are informed of the doctor’s name and phone number, the student’s diagnosis, treatment is given, and any follow-up care that may be necessary.
Referrals – Referral for health issues may be made by any faculty member, parent, or student (self or friend), for any reason, to a member of the Health Team. The Health Team members will take the appropriate action. Appropriate action may include investigating the situation and aiding in the solution, discussing the situation with consultants, and/or referring the student to the consultant for evaluation.
If action is indicated, the Health Team member will inform the student’s adviser and family (legal guardian). The level of information shared will respect the student’s need for confidentiality. Unless danger is an issue, the student’s request will be honored. The same concern and sensitivity are shown to the parents. The confidentiality of parent issues is respected by the staff. Health personnel sincerely encourage phone calls and conferences relating to any student’s health and/or daily life issues.
Confidentiality – The student’s right to privacy and confidentiality of medical information will be preserved to the extent required by law.
Medical Leave – Students sometimes have to leave school for a period of time due to a health-related issue. This leave may be initiated by the student’s family or by the School. In order for a student to qualify for medical leave, the health issue must be assessed by a medical professional and a determination made that it is acute enough to interfere with a
41 student’s ability to attend school. The Head of School must approve any request for Medical Leave, and the Medical/Mental Health Review Committee will define the specific conditions of the leave. Documentation, including a formal diagnosis, must be sent to the School. Before a decision is made about whether or not the student can return to school, there will need to be communication between the School and the appropriate medical professional(s), and a treatment plan must be in place. At that point, the Head of School will review the recommendation of the Medical/Mental Health Review Committee in regard to the School’s ability to effectively support the student. Students will not be allowed to return to campus until this review process is complete. It is the responsibility of the parents/guardian (or student if 18 yrs or older) to notify the school immediately if there are any changes in the proposed treatment plan.
As soon as the Medical Leave process has been initiated, consideration of the student’s circumstances will be considered in regard to academics. The Director of Upper School will coordinate work to be completed. If a student is absent for 10 or more consecutive classes, then he or she is unable to earn credit for that class. If a student is absent for 20 consecutive school days, then he or she would not be able to earn credit in any of their classes, and in turn, would not earn any credit for the quarter or semester. If the Medical Leave occurs at the end of the semester, then a student’s responsibility for taking the Midterm or Final Exam will be assessed on an individual basis, in consultation with the teacher.
HEALTH POLICY FOR DRUGS AND ALCOHOL The possession or use of illegal drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia, or being in the presence of anyone using them, as well as the abuse of over-the-counter medications, while a member of the St. Andrew’s community, is prohibited whether on or off-campus and whether or not school is in session If a student’s behavior is suggestive of alcohol or drug use/abuse, referral to the Health Center is appropriate, and can be made by the student in question, parents, friends, or any other member of the community. Such a referral to the Health Center will be treated in a non-disciplinary manner, provided that there was no prior information obtained by the Health Center Staff or Dean of Students indicating that a disciplinary infraction had occurred. However, if a student is caught in possession of or using illegal drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia, or in the presence of anyone using them, as well as the abuse of over-the-counter medications, while a member of the St. Andrew’s community the student encounters the discipline system, which usually also results in a Health Center referral. Note that a Health Center referral for a particular substance-related issue does not preclude a student from facing the discipline process for future substance-related issues or other substance issues not reported to the Health Center.
The Health Center professionals are committed to supporting an alcohol/drug- and tobacco-free campus. They believe that misuse of alcohol/drugs/tobacco is detrimental to the physical development and maintenance of the body and to the growth and development tasks crucial to the success of the adolescent years. The Health Center strives to maintain the critical balance between compassion for and aid to students experiencing problems from substance abuse while protecting the academic and social environment for all students. Support is given through education and through counseling in an honest relationship. Any drug testing which may be necessary is done with sincere concern for the well-being of the student.
Implementation of Support Plan – After a thorough evaluation is completed, a support plan will be established. Support plans may result in individual or group treatment, on or off-campus. In some cases, a health contract is written to help the student commit to accepting and following through on the support plan. The student’s adviser, the Director of Student Life, Dean of Students and the Head of School will be advised of the plan with the student’s knowledge.
Evaluation of Progress – Parents and advisers will be informed of progress with the student’s knowledge. If an off-campus agency is involved, the Health Team member will maintain communication on an as-needed basis.
42 School/Family Cooperation – If a student has been identified as being in possible trouble with drugs or alcohol (through self-referral or referral by others in the community), and investigation suggests that this is probable, parents will be apprised of the situation. The Health Office will work with the student and their family to draw up a contract indicating the appropriate steps in a treatment plan. If the student and/or family refuses to participate in the development and/or execution of this plan, the student will be sent home until a parent conference can be arranged. The conference would include the student, family, school nurse and counselor, the Director of Student Life, Dean of Students and the Head of School. Other members may include the student’s adviser and dorm parents if the student is a boarder. If at the end of this meeting the family is still unwilling to participate, the Head of School will determine whether the student will be allowed to continue at the School.
Drug and Alcohol Testing – To support evaluative efforts in the health program, the Student Authorization for Care form indicates that students may be tested for suspicion of drug or alcohol use/abuse. If a health referral leads to a positive test result, the appropriate support will be provided to help the student get off and stay off drugs and/or alcohol. If additional testing indicated continued involvement, a meeting would be called by the Head of School to determine whether a medical leave of absence would be required. Students are also typically tested on a random basis following disciplinary action related to drug infractions. A positive result leads to the belief that the student was using illegal substances while a member of the St. Andrew’s community, and therefore subject to disciplinary consequences. St. Andrew’s is not responsible for any of the costs that accompany testing and/or subsequent treatment.
ST. ANDREW’S ACCESSIBILITY PROGRAM Administrative Accessibility Program In order to ensure that all students, faculty, admissions candidates, and the general public have access to the administrative functions housed in McVickar Hall (a historic facility, non-compliant with current accessibility regulations), regardless of physical disability, the School has made the following program accommodations for the Head of School, Admissions, Development, and Receptionist functions: • Representatives of the aforementioned offices shall meet the disabled person in the conference room of the Adams building. This facility is fully accessible and has accessible parking just south of the building. • For disabled members of the community, the mail is delivered on a daily basis (Monday-Friday) to Stone Academic Center. Similarly, packages will be delivered by the School’s maintenance department to the Assistant to the Director of Upper School’s office in Stone Academic Center or to the dormitory for a boarder. In order to send mail, the individual with disabilities will give the mail to the Assistant to the Director of Academics for daily delivery to McVickar for US postal pick-up. All boarding students’ allowance/ activity accounts shall be charged for the cost of postage. • In order to make appropriate arrangements to meet with an administrator in one of these buildings, the School generally asks that four hours notice be given to schedule room use. However, when this is not possible, the School will seek alternate accessible space such as the Head Master’s Dining Room, Brown faculty room or the Peck conference room. Whenever possible, and when scheduling initial meetings with parties, the School will inquire as to whether any special accommodations need to be made. • Events that are open to the public shall be scheduled and held in an accessible space, and on an equivalent basis. • Arrangements with a particular department can be made by calling the respective offices directly at 401-246-1230, ext. 3029 (Head of School), ext. 3025 (Admissions), ext. 3044 (Development), and ext. 3020 (Receptionist). • The administrative functions concerning the Business Office, Student Life, and the Academic and Learning Services Departments are fully accessible. • It is the express intent of the School that all persons have equal access to all Administrators and their functions. The School will make necessary and reasonable accommodations to achieve this objective.
43 RESIDENTIAL LIFE FACILITIES AND PROGRAM The environment of the dormitory is as important as that of the classroom for the success of the boarding student.
There is considerable similarity among the dorms in terms of procedures, although minor differences do exist and will be explained to the boarding student by their dorm parents. The programs and policies of the Upper School dorms have been designed to fit into the overall philosophy of the School, and they are intended to create closely-knit units where students can feel secure and comfortable.
Suggested Articles for Residents Laundry bags, two blankets, one bedspread, a pillow, two pillowcases, four twin size sheets (two fitted), bath towels, face cloths, toiletries, soap in soap dish or liquid soap, lamp, trash can, fan, loose-leaf paper, three-ring binder(s), calculator, pens and pencils, folders, computer, *seniors are allowed to bring a small, portable refrigerator *note that the school provides a small, lockable room safe for each resident
Clothing: • See Class Day Dress Code in the Student Life section. • For more formal school or off-campus functions: bring sports coats, dress slacks, ties and dress shoes, appropriate dresses, dress pants, skirts and blouses, and shoes. • For casual wear: Slacks, sweaters, sports shirts, blouses, etc. All clothing should be marked with the student’s name. • For seasonal wear: Winter coat, boots and gloves, shorts, and a bathing suit.
Sports equipment: Students should bring equipment relative to their interests.
Articles Not Permitted – Refrigerators, pets, incense, candles, matches, space heaters, hot plate, electric blanket, strands of lights, automobiles, mini bikes or motorized scooters, hoverboards, TVs, firecrackers, weapons (including folding knives), military paraphernalia or other dangerous items. We do not recommend bringing expensive cameras, jewelry or other small, valuable items to campus. Clothing or decorations with writing, and/or clothing or decorations that promote unacceptable activities (alcohol, drug use, etc.) are prohibited. The School reserves the right to make final judgments as to the acceptability of a student’s room decorations.
Laundry Facilities and Procedures – Each dormitory has a coin-operated washer and dryer available for student use during the week and on weekends, and students will be instructed in their use. Facilities usage must conform to the guidelines established in each dormitory. Students must supply their own detergent. A laundry service can also be made available for boarding students. The vendor works directly with students and families. Contact the Director of Residential Life for information regarding the laundry service.
Telephones – All boarding students have access to school telephones in each dorm. Students may call campus buildings free of charge. They may also call many local businesses free of charge. Students must treat the phones with care; damage to any school phone is the financial responsibility of the student.
44 Students are permitted to have cell phones, but their use is restricted. Cell phone calls are not allowed during the school day from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, during study hall 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm or after 11:00 pm. Cell phones will be confiscated if the policy is violated.
Room Care and Hygiene – Students are expected to take proper care of their clothes, rooms, and bodies. The Residential Life program requires students to clean their room Sunday through Thursday prior to the study hall. Rooms, including closets and drawers, are inspected frequently. For those students who fail to meet organizational or cleanliness standards, free-time will be suspended until such issues are resolved. Room decorations are encouraged. Wall decorations must be hung with non-stick adhesives to avoid damage. Nails, tacks or other adhesives are not permissible means for hanging decorations. Strings of lights and stick-on decorations are prohibited. Students will be billed the cost of repairing any room damage and/or replacing room keys. THE SCHOOL RESERVES THE RIGHT TO INSPECT AND/OR SEARCH DORM ROOMS AT ANY TIME.
Dormitory Jobs – Students are responsible for keeping the dormitory, both their own rooms and public areas, neat and clean. The Residential Life program requires students to clean their dorm Sunday through Thursday following free time. The dorm jobs are supervised and inspected by the on-duty faculty and proctors. Dorm jobs are assigned on a rotating basis. Though most jobs are completed after evening free time, some may entail or allow work at different times of the day. For those students who fail to meet standards with regard to completion of their assigned task, future free-time will be suspended until such issues are resolved and additional disciplinary action will be taken as warranted.
BANKING AND STUDENT ACTIVITY ACCOUNT The Student Bank handles two kinds of accounts for students: The Student Activities Account and the Weekly Allowance Account. All checks for deposit into these accounts should be made payable to St. Andrew’s Student Bank and should specify the name of the student whose account will be credited.
The Student Activities Account includes funds for weekend activities (the average student spends approximately $30 per weekend), medicines, SAT testing, and miscellaneous expenses. It is recommended that at least $500 be deposited into this account in September and at least another $500 be deposited in January.
Weekly allowances are distributed in the Business Office on Tuesdays and Fridays. Students spend their weekly allowances on everything from pizza deliveries to laundry services. Parents should discuss the weekly allowance with their child, then communicate the agreed upon amount to the Assistant Business Officer. Typically, $15-$20 is a sufficient amount to cover weekly expenses. EXTRA MONEY WILL BE GIVEN ONLY WHEN A PARENT GIVES EITHER WRITTEN OR ORAL PERMISSION TO THE BUSINESS OFFICE (call the Director of Business Services at extension 3036). THE SCHOOL WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ADVANCING FUNDS TO STUDENTS.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS We require that all parents of international boarding students designate a guardian in the United States who, in the parent's absence, may be contacted in regards to permissions, illness, or disciplinary issues. International students must reside on campus unless they are residing with a parent.
New International Students are typically matched with a roommate who does not speak the same first language in an effort to make sure English is the common language spoken. In an attempt to foster associations and mitigate some of the challenges that our International Students face, we encourage local St. Andrew’s families to invite International Students
45 to their homes.
International Students are encouraged to speak English while they are on campus, particularly during the course of the school day. Faculty members promote spoken English as part of their curriculum. Faculty may provide incentives for the International Students to speak more English in their classroom. Conversely, if International Students fail to meet explicit expectations with regard to spoken English consequences may be imposed.
DORMITORY VISITATION POLICY Students are not allowed in any dormitory other than their own when there is no direct faculty supervision. Day students may only be in a dorm if they have checked in with the on-duty dorm parent. Day students visiting a boarding student, after school, or on the weekend, must check in with, and be responsible to, the dorm parent of that boarding student. Day students are not allowed in the dorms between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm on weekdays. Day students who enter a dorm when there is no dorm parent in the building, or who fail to check in with a dorm parent, will be assigned to Conduct Probation and/or suspended.
If a day student wishes to stay overnight in a dormitory, they must submit that request in writing and the School must receive permission from the students’ parents for the overnight stay. All requests and permission should be sent to the Director of Residential Life at least 24 hours in advance (ext. 3109) of the stay, or by Thursday evening if the stay is to take place on Saturday or Sunday. Guests who are not current St. Andrew’s students, including alumni, are not allowed to stay overnight in school dormitories. In general, whether staying overnight or visiting for the day, once on-campus day students are subject to the same rules and policies as dorm students.
St. Andrew’s Student Protocol: • Students must always check in with the on-duty dorm parent. • Students may visit each other in the common rooms of dorms between 4:00 and 7:00 pm and 9:00 and 10:00 pm on weekdays, and on weekend days only when dorm coverage staff is present and if students have properly checked in their visitors. • In-room visitation is allowed for students of the same gender at these times, provided the visiting students check-in with an on-duty faculty member. • If there is no on-duty faculty member present in the dorm, visitors are not allowed. • Students are not to visit each other’s windows. • Student dorm rooms provide for a level of social privacy, but student sexual intimacy of any kind is not condoned on campus. This policy applies to students of both the opposite and the same gender and exists independently of visitation policies. • Disciplinary actions will be taken for violations of visitation policies.
Off-Campus Visitors Protocol: Relatives and friends are encouraged to visit students on campus, but visitors must be checked in with the on-duty dorm parent. In order for the daily schedule to operate smoothly, the following hours are to be observed with regard to off-campus visitors: Monday through Thursday: 4:00-7:00 pm Weekends: the discretion of the on-duty faculty member
46 BOARDING STUDENT PERMISSIONS A Boarding Student Parental Permission Form must be on file (submitted online through Magnus Health) before St. Andrew’s can grant any permission involving a student’s departure from campus. In conjunction with school policies, this essential document allows parents to set the parameters of the student’s responsibility and independence with regard to modes of transportation, possible destinations, weekend privileges, and travel plans. It is the responsibility of the student to understand, and follow, the permissions that have been granted and the rules and procedures that are in place. Permissions are a privilege and they may be restricted or revoked if they are not managed responsibly. Parents typically complete this form in the summer along with other forms submitted through Magnus Health. Thereafter, parents should contact the Director of Residential Life (ext. 3109) to complete or modify the Boarding Student Parental Permission Form.
Procedure for Leaving Campus - Any time a student wishes to leave campus, he or she must follow proper procedures for checking out of, and checking back into the dormitory. When a student intends to leave campus, they must first consult request permission from the duty staff member, who will check the students’ Boarding Student Parental Permission Form and make allowances accordingly. Students must sign out digitally using the digital sign-out kiosks located in the entranceway of each respective dorm, and check out face-to-face with the on-duty faculty. Students are responsible for clearly and accurately indicating their time of departure, mode of transportation, destination, and expected time of return in the sign-out kiosk. The sign-out kiosk is available at all times for both the students and the faculty on duty to access. Chapin Students must also follow this check-out procedure.
Procedure for Transportation – Parental permission is required for boarding students to take public transportation and/or be passengers in cars driven by others. Parents indicate, on the Boarding Student Parental Permission Form, with which drivers their child is permitted to ride. Students who wish to ride with someone not indicated on the form can obtain approval on a case by case basis with a parent phone call to the faculty or administrator. Official and/or permanent changes to the Boarding Student Parental Permission Form, however, must be submitted in writing to the Director of Residential Life.
Procedure for Weekend Plans - Students wishing to leave campus for all, or part, of the weekend, must plan ahead to be sure that all of their permissions are in order. On Wednesday night, proctors check with students and remind them to complete their Weekend Plans sheet online. Students wishing to leave campus are required to complete a Weekend Plan sheet and submit it to the Director of Residential Life by 8:00 am on Friday morning. If their parents have so indicated on the Boarding Student Parental Permission Form, students may return home on the weekends without a weekly confirmation to the Director of Residential Life. However, in most instances, parents will need to communicate with the Director of Residential Life and verify their child’s plans to leave campus for some or all of the weekend. Parents should indicate the exact location of the student’s destination and the anticipated mode of transportation to and from the destination.
When a boarding student intends to have an overnight visit to a destination other than their home, the Director of Residential Life must receive specific permission from the student’s parents/guardian. This can be done via phone or email. When a boarding student is invited to the home of another St. Andrew’s student for an overnight visit, the Director of Residential Life must receive permission from the parents of the host and the parents of the boarding student. The school also encourages direct communication between the parents of the two students.
Student requests for, and parental approval of, weekend plans must be submitted to the Director of Residential Life. Voice mail is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we ask that parents contact the Director of Residential Life at ext. 3109, by 8:00 am on Friday morning to confirm plans for the upcoming weekend. Confirming plans via e-mail can be
47 done by emailing Robert Tisdale at rtisdale@ standrews-ri.org. After 3:00 pm on Friday, all parent and student requests to change weekend plans must be directed to the Administrator on Duty (AOD), who can be reached at 401.225. 4508.
WEEKDAY SCHEDULE FOR BOARDING STUDENTS 7:15 am - Wake-up 7:30 am - Breakfast (Conduct Probation students must check-in by 7:45 am) 8:00 am - Classes and sports/activities 4:00 pm - Free time, if the student is not involved in interscholastic athletics 5:30 pm - Dinner (students on Conduct Probation must be on campus) 7:00 pm - Students must be on campus and all boarding students must report to their own dormitory to complete a face-to-face check-in with the on-duty faculty member. (Day students must leave campus unless they have been given pre-approval by the Director of Residential Life) Rooms must be cleaned at this time 7:30 pm - Evening Study Hall 9:00 pm - Free time. 10:00 pm - All boarding students must report to their own dormitory to complete a face-to-face check-in with the on-duty faculty member. 10:30 pm - Lights out for residents in Grades 9 and 10. All other residents report to rooms to prepare for lights out 11:00 pm - Lights out for residents in Grade 11 and 12.
WEEKDAY MORNINGS Dorm parents and proctors are responsible for making sure that all of the residents wake up and report to school on time. Boarding students who are ill or have health concerns are required to report to the School Nurse between 7:30 and 7:50 am. Boarding students are allowed to be out of their dorms after 5:30 am if they wish to use the fitness center and/or exercise outdoors; as always, they must follow proper sign out procedure.
Weekday Dormitory Use – During the class day, boarding students who are not on Conduct Probation may return to their own dorms during free time. Students on Conduct Probation are not to return to the dorm during the day without permission. Students in the dorm must respect the property and rights of others during these times. They must also meet their obligations to be on time to assigned classes. Boarding students who enter dorms other than their own when there is no dorm parent on duty and without permission are subject to disciplinary action.
WEEKDAY AFTERNOONS The dorms are not always directly supervised in the afternoons. However, the on-duty dorm parent will be on campus and available. On-duty dorm parents will always indicate/communicate their whereabouts to the residents. Throughout the year, the Library, Fitness Center, Jones Gymnasium, and Student Center are consistently open to the residents during their free time. Additional activities and opportunities are provided on a seasonal basis. According to their documented permission form, students are also allowed to leave campus during their free time. Students may leave campus between 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm (5:30 pm return for students on Conduct Probation).
Evenings - Sunday through Thursday Boarding students may not spend the night off-campus during the week - unless there is a definite need and permission is granted by a parent. All students should report to their dorm by 7:00 pm and each resident needs to do a face-to-face check-in with the on-duty faculty member immediately upon arrival. Food deliveries will be permitted until 7:15 pm and
48 then from 9:00-10:00 pm.
In the interval between 7:15 and 7:25, students will begin to prepare for the evening study hall. For evening study hall, grade 9 students are expected to report to Stone Library for study hall by 7:30 pm. Once there, those students will be assigned a seat to spend their time actively studying for the next ninety minutes. For these students, cellular phones or other digital devices used primarily for communication purposes are to be turned off and left behind in dorm rooms. Students may use personal computers for academic purposes only. Headphones are not permitted unless otherwise stipulated. Study hall will be supervised by on-duty faculty, who check in periodically with students to both monitor productivity and answer questions that may arise.
All other boarding students (grade 10-12 students), will attend Formal Study Hall in their Dormitory. Residents will report to their own room and prop the door open by 7:30. Students should not be in other students’ dorm rooms, taking showers, doing laundry or sleeping at this time. The dorm should be kept quiet and peaceful until Study Hall ends at 9:00. A Structured Study Hall will be provided for those students who would benefit from a quieter study setting and some individualized attention and support. Students can choose to join Structured Study Hall or their presence can be recommended by their adviser, their teachers, their dorm parent, or their parents. This Structured Study Hall will be in a quiet area of the Library, and their progress will be monitored closely by the on-duty coverage person. Minor disruptions are dealt with on the scene. More serious problems are reported to the Dean of Students.
Students who wish to work collaboratively with other students during study hall must first receive permission from the on-duty faculty member. The on-duty faculty member will then assign the students to a common space which minimizes distraction to other students. At 9:00 pm, students will be granted free time in which they can utilize the Student Center, Fitness Center, or visit other dormitories (provided there is an on-duty faculty member present to supervise). Following a face-to-face check-in from free time, the on-duty faculty and student proctors directly supervise dorm chores.
Weekday Off-Campus Evening Classes or Activities Boarding students may take advantage of enrichment experiences in the local area if the following criteria are met: • The activity must be educational in nature • The experience must be unavailable at St. Andrew’s • The experience may not disrupt, or interfere with, the student’s integration in the boarding program • Parental permission is secured • The student is in good academic standing (no Ds or Fs on the last report card) and is not on Conduct Probation • Transportation is arranged in advance The Administration will determine whether the above criteria have been satisfied.
WEEKEND PROGRAM The School attempts to provide activities on the weekend that are interesting and enjoyable. The Coordinator of Weekend Activities plans activities that take place both on campus (e.g. sporting events, theater performances, competitions, parties, movie screenings, etc.) and off (e.g. bowling, ice skating, shopping, etc.). Our proximity to Providence, Newport, and Boston allows us to offer a wide range of cultural and recreational activities, as well as extensive community service opportunities. Some activities may require students to sign up in advance with the Coordinator of Weekend Activities. Otherwise, students may sign up with the weekend team as the occasion arises. On-campus, the gymnasium, fitness center, library and student center are open at various times. In addition, athletic events and artistic performances regularly occur on the weekends. Activities are scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday afternoon and evening, and Sunday afternoon.
49 Boarding students typically spend about $30 per weekend and are encouraged to open an account with the Student Bank. Students are directly responsible for the cost of the weekend activity in which they participate.
International students may be offered opportunities to participate in specific cultural events and outings during the course of the school year. These weekend activities, offered exclusively to international students, provide educational opportunities beyond the classroom and enhance the overall experience of the international students.
WEEKEND SCHEDULE Students who wish to leave campus for all, or part, of the weekend, must observe the School’s Procedure for Leaving Campus and Procedures for Weekend Plans. Friday 5:30 pm - Dinner (check-in by 6:00 pm) 6:30 - 10:00 pm - Evening activity session 11:00 pm - In dorm check-in
Saturday 11:00 - 11:45 am - Brunch (students check in by 11:30 am) 12:00 - 5:30 pm - Afternoon Activity session 5:30 pm - Dinner (check in) 6:30 - 10:00 pm - Evening activity session 11:00 pm - In dorm check-in
Sunday 11:00 - 11:45 am - Brunch (check-in) 12:00 - 4:00 pm - Afternoon activity session 5:30 pm - Dinner 7:00 pm - Weekend return check-in 7:30 - 9:00 pm - Quiet Hours 10:00 pm - In dorm check-in
Freshmen must be present for each check-in unless they have departed campus for the weekend. Freshmen are not allowed to miss a check-in unless expressly permitted by the Administrator on Duty.
On Friday and Saturday nights, all students are expected to be in their own dorms by 11:00 pm, where they must perform a face to face check-in with the dorm parent on duty.
On Friday, students who are on campus must report to the Dining Hall by 6:00 pm. The Dorm Parents on duty will take attendance and students will communicate with the weekend team during dinner and confirm their plans for the evening/weekend.
On Saturday, students are required to report to brunch and check in with the weekend team by 11:30 am. The weekend team will take attendance and students will sign up for afternoon activities or sign out according to their Boarding Student
50 Parental Permission Form. Students will be required to vacate the dormitories on Saturdays between 12 and 3 pm. Students may sign out to local destinations, attend on/off-campus activities, or congregate in the Students Center or other supervised on-campus facilities. Students who are feeling ill will report to the nurse's wing of the health center where they can be monitored by the Administrator on Duty.
Students who are on conduct probation will remain with the duty team or administrator on duty throughout the weekend, beginning each day at brunch. Students may not return to the dorms until 10 pm.
At 11:45 am, the Student Center will be open. The Student Center will remain open (except from 5:30-6:30 pm) until 10:00 pm. Students who are signing during the weekend must checkout (face-to-face) with either their dorm parent or with the Administrator on Duty. All parent and student requests to change weekend plans must be directed to the AOD who will, in turn, communicate with the weekend team and dorm parents to confirm changes.
On Sundays, the AOD will attend brunch, help dorm parents take attendance and sign students up for an afternoon activity. The AOD and another staff member will chaperone the Sunday afternoon activities. Any student who wishes to stay on campus may do so. Students need to do a face-to-face check out with the on-duty dorm parent if they choose to leave campus in compliance with their permission form. Each dorm will have a dorm parent on duty each Sunday for the entire day. Students are required to do a face-to-face check-in with the on-duty dorm parent when they return to campus. Parents need to call the on-duty dorm parent or the AOD if their student will not be returning to campus by 7:00 pm. (See Evenings Sunday through Thursday for the Sunday evening routine.)
A late return will be handled as an infraction unless the student’s parent has called the on-duty dorm parent or AOD to alert us to special circumstances. No more than one excuse for lateness will be accepted each quarter.
Long Weekends On long weekends, the dorms remain open and dorm parents are on duty. The first night of a long weekend is treated like a Friday night (dorm parents on duty), the middle days as Saturdays (dorm parents off duty between 12 and 5 pm) and the final day as a Sunday (dorm parents on duty). Otherwise, students, parents, the AOD, weekend team and dorm parents follow standard weekend procedures.
DAY STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN THE WEEKEND PROGRAM Day students in good academic standing are encouraged to participate in weekend activities at their own expense. A day student may speak with the Coordinator of Weekend Activities to sign up in advance or may check the availability of space with the chaperone on the day of the trip. A day student who wishes to join a weekend trip should report to the corresponding meal before the activity is scheduled to leave and should be sure their parents know what time to pick them up afterward. Day students who drive to campus to join an activity should park in the lower lot. Day students will not be allowed to remain on campus without engaging in the weekend/boarding program. Day students who participate in weekend activities, traveling with the school group or meeting them at the event, are responsible to the supervising faculty member(s) and will be expected to adhere to all school rules and policies. Day students leaving from the School are expected to go in the school van. Boarding students may not ride in day students’ cars to weekend activities.
VACATION CHECK-OUT AND RETURN POLICY The School Calendar is made available during the preceding summer months so parents have ample time to plan for the holidays. It is wise to make a plane and train reservations as early as possible. Students must arrange their own
51 transportation. Dorms will stay open no later than 5:00 pm on the day vacation begins.
Early dismissal before vacation will be at the discretion of the Head of School and must comply with our policy for non-health related absences.
On the return day after vacations, dorms will re-open at 1:00 pm and dinner will be served at 5:30 pm. The School will provide scheduled transportation for departure and arrival days, but will not be responsible for transporting those students who travel outside of these designated times. Again, if circumstances prevent a student from returning by 9:00 pm on the day vacation ends, arrangements must be made in advance. Please note that all students are required to attend Awards Night and Commencement and Conduct Probation will be assigned to students who violate this policy.
MIDDLE SCHOOL CLOSING CEREMONIES AND GRADE 8 COMMENCEMENT: All middle school students and families are expected to attend middle school closing ceremonies and grade eight commencement. At the conclusion of this ceremony, the school year is officially completed for middle school students.
COMMENCEMENT AND CLOSING Students are required to move out of the dorm by 3:00 pm on the day of Commencement. In the days preceding, students will have the opportunity to pack their belongings and clean their rooms. St. Andrew’s is not able to store items for students over the summer, but works with an outside company that will, for a reasonable fee, pick up items students do not wish to transport home over the summer and store them offsite in a climate-controlled space. Parents can go to www.collegestorageri.com for more information. Rooms will be inspected for cleanliness and damage by the dorm parents and students need to return their room keys before they depart. Students will be charged a fee of $500 if they depart campus for the summer without having passed inspection and/or billed the cost of repairing any room damage and/or $15.00 for replacement of room keys.
52